Convert space curve to cartesian

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around converting a space curve defined parametrically by R(t) = sinti + sqrt(2)costj + sintk into Cartesian coordinates. Participants explore the implications of this conversion, including the geometric interpretation of the resulting equations and the limitations of the approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the parametric equations x = sint, y = sqrt(2)cost, z = sint and suggests eliminating t to find the Cartesian equation.
  • Another participant notes that while the equation x² + y² + z² = 2 holds, it oversimplifies the situation by suggesting a spherical structure rather than retaining the curve's one-dimensional nature.
  • A participant emphasizes the need to intersect with the plane x = z to accurately describe the curve, proposing the equation x = z = (1 - y²)^(1/2)/√2 as a more precise representation.
  • In response, another participant confirms the correctness of the proposed equation and requests clarification on how it is derived.
  • Further elaboration is provided, showing the relationships between x, y, and z and deriving the equation x = z = √(1 - y²/2) based on the parametric definitions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of the Cartesian conversion, with some asserting that the spherical equation is insufficient without additional constraints, while others provide derivations that support the proposed equations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to fully represent the curve.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the potential misunderstanding of dimensionality when transitioning from a curve to a surface and the need for further clarification on the derivation of the proposed equations.

yanyin
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
if R = sinti+sqrt(2)costj+sintk, 0<=t<=Pi/2
please eliminate t to determine the cartesian equation of R(t). Put limits on the variables and verbally describe the curve
 
Physics news on Phys.org
x= sint, y=sqrt(2)cost, z=sint

u can clearly see that
x2 + y2 +z2=2{sin2t +cos2t}

=2

x2 + y2 +z2=2
 
And eqaully clearly, surely you can see there is more to it than that? You've just replaced a locally 1-d structure (a curve) with a locally 2-d structure, a sphere.

yes, the x, y, and z coordinates necessarily satisfy that, but that isn't sufficient. You need to intersect with the plane x=z (or similar) at the very least.

generally the equation is [tex]x=z=(1-y^2)^{1/2}/\sqrt 2[/tex]
 
Originally posted by matt grime
And eqaully clearly, surely you can see there is more to it than that? You've just replaced a locally 1-d structure (a curve) with a locally 2-d structure, a sphere.

yes, the x, y, and z coordinates necessarily satisfy that, but that isn't sufficient. You need to intersect with the plane x=z (or similar) at the very least.

generally the equation is [tex]x=z=(1-y^2)^{1/2}/\sqrt 2[/tex]
Thanks matt grime, I've checked yours is correct.
but can you show me how the above equation is reached.
 
If matt grime will forgive me for sticking in my oar:

x= sint, y=sqrt(2)cost, z=sint so obviously x= z.

x2= sin2t= (1-cos2t). But
y2= 2 cos2t so cos2t= y2/2. That is x2= 1- y2/2 and
x= z= &radic;(1- y2/2).
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K