Finding Surface Area Cone through integration

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the surface area of a cone using the equations x=u*sin(a)*cos(v), y=u*sin(a)*sin(v), and z=u*cos(a) with given limits of integration. The attempt at a solution involves calculating the absolute value of the cross product of r'(u) and r'(v), integrating it, and comparing the result to the formula for surface area of a cone. However, the calculated result does not match the formula. The solution involves finding the element of area using the cross product of Xu and Xv and integrating within the given limits.
  • #1
maupassant
10
0

Homework Statement



Find the surface area of the cone with the following equations:
x= u sin(a)cos(v) , y= u sin(a)sin(v), z=u cos(a)
where 0<=u <=b , 0<=v<=2(pi), a is constant!

The Attempt at a Solution



Trying to solve this I first calculate the absolute value of the cross product of r'(u) and r'(v):

ABS(r'(u) x r'(v)) = SQRT(u^2 (sin(a) ^2)) = u sin(a)

Then I try to integrate this result by calculating


∫ ∫ (u sin(a)) du dv = ∫ (1/2)(b^2) (sin(a)) dv = (pi) (b^2) sin(a)

with 0<=u<=b and 0<=v<=2(pi) as limits of integration.


This result however does not correspond with the formula to find the surface area of a cone.
Could someone help out with this problem?
Thank you!

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Let a surface be X=(x(u,v),y(u,v),z(u,v)) . The element of area will be the cross product of Xu & Xv ( Xu is the partial derivative with respect to u &c.).Integrate this within the limits.
 

1. How do you find the surface area of a cone using integration?

To find the surface area of a cone using integration, you first need to determine the formula for the curved surface area of a cone, which is given by A = πrl, where r is the radius of the base and l is the slant height. Then, you need to set up an integral using this formula and integrate from 0 to the height of the cone. The resulting integral will give you the surface area of the cone.

2. Why is integration used to find the surface area of a cone?

Integration is used to find the surface area of a cone because it allows us to break down the curved surface into infinitely small sections and add them up to get the total surface area. This is especially useful for curved surfaces, where traditional geometric methods may not work.

3. Can you find the surface area of a cone using only calculus?

Yes, the surface area of a cone can be found using only calculus. Integration is a fundamental concept in calculus and can be used to find the surface area of any curved surface, including cones. However, some prior knowledge of geometry and trigonometry may be necessary to set up the integral correctly.

4. Is there a simpler way to find the surface area of a cone?

Yes, there is a simpler way to find the surface area of a cone if you know the radius and slant height. You can use the formula A = πrs, where r is the radius and s is the slant height, to calculate the surface area of the curved surface. Then, you can add the area of the base (given by πr²) to get the total surface area of the cone.

5. Can integration be used to find the surface area of other 3D shapes?

Yes, integration can be used to find the surface area of other 3D shapes such as spheres, cylinders, and even more complex curved surfaces. The same concept of breaking down the surface into infinitesimal sections and integrating can be applied to these shapes as well.

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