Centroid of a Solid (triple integral)

In summary, the problem is to find the centroid of a tetrahedron in the first octant enclosed by the coordinate planes and the plane x+y+z=1. The equations for finding the x, y, and z coordinates of the centroid are given, and the attempt at a solution is shown. However, the bounds of integration were incorrect, resulting in an undefined expression. By correcting the bounds of integration, the correct answer of (1/4, 1/4, 1/4) is obtained.
  • #1
Knissp
75
0

Homework Statement


Find the centroid of the solid:
the tetrahedron in the first octant enclosed by the coordinate planes and the plane x+y+z=1.

Homework Equations



xcenter = [tex]\frac{\int\int\int_G x dV}{V}[/tex]

ycenter = [tex]\frac{\int\int\int_G y dV}{V}[/tex]

zcenter = [tex]\frac{\int\int\int_G z dV}{V}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I have shown my attempt for xcenter, as the same problem arises for each one.

[tex]\frac{\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} x dzdydx}{\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} dV} [/tex]

but [tex]\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} dV[/tex] is equal to zero,
so the above expression is undefined.

According to my text, the answer should be (1/4,1/4,1/4). Could someone point out what I did wrong? (Perhaps my bounds of integration?)
 
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  • #2
Knissp said:
[tex]\frac{\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} x dzdydx}{\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} dV} [/tex]

but [tex]\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^1\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x} dV[/tex] is equal to zero,
so the above expression is undefined.

Hi Knissp! :smile:

Try [tex]\int_{x=0}^1\int_{y=0}^ {1-x}\int_{z=0}^{1-y-x}[/tex] :wink:
 
  • #3
Oh, I see now! Thank you!
 

What is the centroid of a solid?

The centroid of a solid is the point at which the center of mass of the solid is located. It is the point where the solid could be perfectly balanced, or the point that would support the solid's weight if it were placed on a pin.

How is the centroid of a solid calculated?

The centroid of a solid is calculated using a triple integral, which takes into account the density of the solid at each point in space. The triple integral is evaluated over the volume of the solid, and the resulting coordinates give the location of the centroid.

What is the significance of the centroid of a solid?

The centroid of a solid is significant because it helps us understand the distribution of mass within the solid. It is also used in engineering and physics to calculate the stability and balance of objects and structures.

Can the centroid of a solid be outside of the solid?

Yes, it is possible for the centroid of a solid to be outside of the solid itself. This can happen if the density of the solid is not uniform, or if the shape of the solid is irregular.

How does the centroid of a solid differ from the centroid of a plane figure?

The centroid of a solid takes into account the density of the solid, while the centroid of a plane figure only considers the distribution of mass along a 2-dimensional shape. Additionally, the centroid of a solid is a point in 3-dimensional space, while the centroid of a plane figure is a point in 2-dimensional space.

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