Column cross-sectional area (cm2)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the cross-sectional area of a cylindrical column with a radius of 2 cm and a height of 5 cm. Participants explore the concept of cross-sectional area, seek clarification on the formula, and share various approaches to the calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the meaning of "cross-sectional area" in the context of a cylinder.
  • Another participant suggests visualizing the cylinder and making a horizontal cut to understand the shape of the cross-section.
  • Some participants indicate that the cross-section of a cylinder is circular, leading to the formula for the area being A = πr².
  • A participant provides a detailed example of calculating the area using a different diameter, illustrating the process but not confirming its correctness.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of understanding concepts rather than just receiving answers, indicating a pedagogical approach to the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the approach to the problem, as some participants focus on providing direct answers while others stress the importance of understanding the underlying concepts. The discussion includes both supportive and critical responses regarding the provision of answers versus guidance.

Contextual Notes

Some participants provide calculations and examples without confirming their accuracy, and there is a mix of informal and formal approaches to explaining the concept. The discussion reflects varying levels of understanding and engagement with the mathematical principles involved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students seeking clarification on the concept of cross-sectional area in geometry, particularly in relation to cylindrical shapes, as well as those interested in different approaches to problem-solving in mathematics.

mountain
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hello guys!

i have a column with a shape of a cylinder. the radius is 2cm and the heigh is 5cm. i have to calculate the cross-sectional area of the column. i wonder what is the formula and how is the calculation? it has been a long time since i last had my math lectures, so i really hope for some help!

thanks a lot!
 
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Well, draw a picture of a cylinder and visualize/draw the cross-sec. area. What is the shape of this area? How do you find the area of figures of that shape?
 
hi sirus!

my problem is that i don't know what it means with "cross-sectional area"

if the column has a shape like a circular cylinder with a radius of 2cm and the length/high of the column is 5cm.

how would you find the cross-sectional area?

hope for ideas!
 
Imagine the cylinder standing one of its ends and make a horizontal cut through it. What shape do each of the NEW ends have? That is the cross section.
 
hi Tide!


cross-section is that, but what about cross-sectional area of the column? is that the areal of it?
 
I don't think mountain will be coming up with the correct answer anytime soon. So I'll just come straight out with the answer. The cross-section of a cylinder is in the shape of a -----e. No matter where you horizontally cut a standing cylinder, the ends of the cut pieces you make will be in a shape of a -----e.

Ooops, not quite as un-cryptic as I'd hoped. :smile: Another hint: The area of the cross section has something to do with the number 3.14159265...
 
Mountain,

Since Recon gave such a cryptic message -- prepare to slap yourself on the forehead --- the cross secion is a CIRCLE! :-)

I'm sure you can handle it from there.
 
Mountain, try to read up on this in your textbook a little. Once you grasp it, cross-sectional area will be easy for you.
 
Geeze guys! this is emergency and you guys are playing with my time
anyway i have got the answer from some more helpful people :-p it is A= pi*r^2 :cool: :approve:
 
  • #10
Sorry if you were pressed for time, but we don't give answers on this forum. We help people understand concepts and approaches to questions so they can find the answers themselves. You don't learn anything if someone gives you the answer to a question.
 
  • #11
alright it is easy this is how...Take the raduis(power of 2) after converting it to the power form then you multiply it by 3.14=Pie...The answer is your cross sectional area.

Example.

Suppose a diameter is 40 cm.I convert it to the radius that is 20 cm. Then i convert again the 20 cm in the power 2 format. That becomes 400 cm. After that you multiply the 400 by 3.14(Pie Calculation) that gives you 1256 cm..So 1256cm is your cross sectional area.
 
  • #12
Mountain your answer is 12.56cm..Your Welcome......And i am 12.And i answerd your question...LMFAO>>>>JUST A BIG LMFAO...jks...But the answer is correct
 

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