VECTOR TENSOR GRAPHICAL NOTATION OF CONTINUUM MECHANICS TEACHING

Mastering basic knowledge of vector analysis and tensor analysis is the foundation for learning and studying continuum mechanics. In this paper, graphical notation of vector analysis and tensor analysis is introduced, which includes vector’s dot product, cross product, triple product, first-order differential, second-order differential, trace of second-order tensor, tensor’s simple contraction, double contraction and divergence operator, etc. According to graphical notation, some vector and tensor equations can be proved quickly, which is more intuitive, concise and efficient than mathematical derivation. The introduction of graphical notation and combination with mathematical derivation may deepen the understanding of vector analysis and tensor analysis for students, and enhance interest of continuum mechanics in teaching.