Can a curve with singular point be a regular curve?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of regularity in parameterized curves and the proof that a curve is regular everywhere except at a specific point. The formula for the curve is given and it is concluded that the curve is indeed regular except at t = a, which is not even in the interval (a,b). The concept of regularity and its application is also briefly explained.
  • #1
Cauchy1789
46
0

Homework Statement



Given a parameterized curve [tex]\alpha:(a,b)\rightarrow \mathbb{R}^2[/tex], show that this curve is regular except at t = a.

Homework Equations



I know that according to the defintion that a parameterized curve [tex]\alpha: I \rightarrow \mathbb{R}^3[/tex] is said to be regular if [tex]\alpha'(t) \neq 0[/tex] [tex]\forall t \in I.[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



I have read that any curve which has a point where the tangent vector is zero cannot be a regular curve, so how is it even possible to just forget about that singular point in such a proof?

Best regards
Cauchy
 
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  • #2
Do you have more information about alpha? Like, what the formula is?

Also, a isn't in your interval, so you're fine anyway?
 
  • #3
Office_Shredder said:
Do you have more information about alpha? Like, what the formula is?

Also, a isn't in your interval, so you're fine anyway?

Hi

First of all its suppose be t = p and [tex]p \in I [/tex] and the curve is defined as

[tex]\alpha(t) = (x(t),y(t))[/tex] a parameter curve.

having a singular point on a regular curve isn't that a contradiction?

Sincerrely

Cauchy
 
  • #4
show that this curve is regular except at t = a.

Where a is not in (a,b) so it doesn't even fail the regularity condition.

Anywho, if someone says "Show a curve is regular everywhere except point p" it's like if someone said "show f(x)=|x| is differentiable except at 0" By definition, a differentiable function is differentiable everywhere, but you understand what they mean anyway. Same principle applies here.
 

1. What is a singular point on a curve?

A singular point on a curve is a point where the curve fails to be smooth, meaning that the curve and its derivative have different values at that point.

2. Can a curve have more than one singular point?

Yes, a curve can have multiple singular points. These can be isolated points or they can form a continuous curve themselves.

3. What is a regular curve?

A regular curve is a curve that is smooth and has no singular points. This means that the curve and its derivative have the same value at all points on the curve.

4. Can a curve with a singular point still be considered a regular curve?

No, a curve with a singular point cannot be considered a regular curve. The presence of a singular point means that the curve is not smooth and therefore does not meet the criteria for a regular curve.

5. Are singular points always undesirable on a curve?

Not necessarily. In some cases, singular points can be intentional and serve a purpose in the behavior of the curve. However, in most cases, singular points are considered undesirable as they can cause issues with the continuity and differentiability of the curve.

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