Is This the Correct Integral for Finding Volume Using the Shell Method?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the volume of a solid of revolution using the shell method, specifically for the region bounded by the y-axis, the line y=2, and the curve defined by e^(x/2). The original poster presents an integral they believe is correct for this calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to validate their integral for volume calculation using the shell method. Some participants express agreement with the original poster's approach, while others challenge the correctness of the integral presented. There are discussions about the evaluation of the integral and the formulation of the function used in the shell method.

Discussion Status

The discussion features a mix of affirmations and disagreements regarding the correctness of the integral. While some participants confirm the original poster's integral, others assert that it is incorrect and provide alternative formulations. The conversation reflects a productive exploration of the problem without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are examining the application of the shell method and the specific setup of the problem, including the boundaries and the function involved. There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct interpretation of the integral in relation to the problem's requirements.

RadiationX
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Let R be the region in the first quadrant bounded by the y-axis,y=2 and the graph of [tex]e^\frac{x}{2}[/tex]. Create a solid of revolution by revolving R about the y-axis. Use the shell method to find the volume. This is the integral I've come up with, is it correct? And of coures i'll use inegration by parts to calculate the integral.

[tex]2\pi\int_{0}^{\ln4}(x)(e^\frac{x}{2})dx[/tex]

and using integration by parts yields.

[tex]2\pi(2xe^\frac{x}{2}-4e^\frac{x}{2})\right]]_{0}^{\ln4}[/tex]
 
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Looks correct.
 
thx timnguyen. can someone else please check this solution for me too?
 
Yep that's exactly right.
 
sorry guys this is not correct!
 
the integration of the integral is correct, but for this particular problem the integral is wrong.
 
I don't see anything wrong with that integral. Make sure you evaluated it right.

I get 9.7086
 
the calculation of the integral is correct BUT, it is not the correct integral for the problem. from the information given the integral should be




[tex]2\pi\int_{0}^{\ln4}(2x-xe^\frac{x}{2})dx[/tex]
 
so [tex]f(x) = 2-e^{x/2}[/tex]? I don't see why.

For cylindrical shells:

V = [tex]2\pi\int{xf(x)}{dx}[/tex]

f(x) is given in the problem as [tex]e^{x/2}[/tex]

[tex]2-e^{x/2}[/tex] is the original function reflected over y=1.
 
  • #10
Because using the shell method, you use the fact that the surface area of a cylinder of radius r and height h is [tex]2\pi r^2 h[/tex]. Here r= x and height of the "cylinder" is from [tex]e^{\frac{1}{2}x}[/tex] to 2- the length is [tex]2- e^{\frac{1}{2}x}[/tex].
 
  • #11
Halls,i hope u mean

[tex]S_{lat.right circular cyl.}=2\pi r h[/tex]

Daniel.
 
  • #12
Oh well, I've never used the shell method, I only just looked it up on MathWorld. Guess that'll help me if I ever come across it :smile:
 

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