Question involving fundamental theorem of line integrals

In summary, the line integral given in part (a) can be evaluated using the fundamental theorem of line integrals by finding the function for which the function inside the integral is the gradient. This function is found to be -(x^2+y^2)^-1. The curve can also be parameterized by the equations x=5cost+4 and y=5sint+5, with t representing the polar coordinate angle. The points (7,9) and (0,2) can be obtained by solving for t using the inverse trig functions. The integral can then be evaluated from the first value of t to the second for a clockwise direction.
  • #1
Thunderdan700
1
0

Homework Statement


a) Use the fundamental theorem of line integrals to evaluate the line integral:
∫(2x/(x^2+y^2)^2)dx+(2y/(x^2+y^2)^2)dy (over C) Where C is the arc of the circle (x-4)^2+(y-5)^2=25 taken clockwise from (7,9) to (0,2). Explain why the fundamental theorem can be applied.
b) Obtain the same result by parameterizing the curve and evaluating the resulting integral

Homework Equations


fundamental theorem of line integrals :
∫(del)f * dr = f(r(b))-f(r(a))

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm supposed to find the function for which the function inside the integral is the gradient. I have:df/dx=(2x/(x^2+y^2)^2) =>> f=-(x^2+y^2)^-1 and df/dy=(2y/(x^2+y^2)^2) =>> f=-(x^2+y^2)^-1, so f(x,y)=-(x^2+y^2)^-1. As far as parameterizing the circle, I have x=5cost+4 and y=5sint+5. I'm completely stuck at this point. I don't see how to get values of t that yield those points on the circle, and I'm confused further because the circle is traversed in a clockwise direction. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Draw a graph of your circle, with another set of axes through its center. Your parameter t is the polar coordinate angle for this second set of axes. For (7,9), look at the little xy triangle from the center (4,5) of the circle to (7,9). You can read sin(t), cos(t), and tan(t) for that angle off that little 3-4-5 triangle, and you can express t in terms of whichever of the inverse trig functions is appropriate. Similarly for the other point. Use a negative angle taking care because it isn't in the range of the inverse trig functions. Once you get those angles do your line integral from the first value of t to the second for clockwise. Or go the other way and use a minus sign in front of the integral.
 

1. What is the fundamental theorem of line integrals?

The fundamental theorem of line integrals is a mathematical theorem that relates the value of a line integral over a closed curve to the values of a function at points along the curve. It states that if a function is continuous and has a continuous first derivative on a closed curve, then the line integral of that function over the curve can be evaluated by finding the anti-derivative of the function and plugging in the endpoints of the curve.

2. How is the fundamental theorem of line integrals different from the fundamental theorem of calculus?

The fundamental theorem of calculus deals with the relationship between derivatives and integrals of a single variable. The fundamental theorem of line integrals extends this concept to functions of multiple variables and allows for the evaluation of integrals over curves in space.

3. What is the significance of the fundamental theorem of line integrals?

The fundamental theorem of line integrals is a powerful tool in calculus and is used to solve various problems in physics, engineering, and other fields. It allows for the calculation of work done by a force along a curve, the calculation of flux through a surface, and the calculation of other physical quantities.

4. Can the fundamental theorem of line integrals be extended to higher dimensions?

Yes, the fundamental theorem of line integrals can be extended to higher dimensions. In fact, there are versions of the theorem for line integrals in three-dimensional space and even for integrals over surfaces and volumes.

5. Are there any limitations to the fundamental theorem of line integrals?

One limitation of the fundamental theorem of line integrals is that it only applies to continuous functions with continuous first derivatives. If the function does not meet these criteria, the theorem cannot be used to evaluate the integral. Additionally, the curve over which the integral is being evaluated must be a closed curve.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
429
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
980
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
259
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
782
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
490
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
871
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
375
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
2K
Back
Top