Finding Surface area of a Parametric Curve

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the surface area of a parametric curve defined by the equations x = 1 - sin(t) and y = 2 + cos(t), specifically when rotated about the line y = 2. Participants express uncertainty about applying the surface area formula in this context, particularly since they are more familiar with rotations about the x-axis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the surface area formula and express confusion about the correct setup for the integral, particularly regarding the transformation of y-values when rotating about y = 2. There are attempts to clarify the integral limits and the components of the formula used.

Discussion Status

Several participants are actively engaging with the problem, questioning the correctness of their calculations and the formula used. There is a recognition of differing results, with some participants suggesting that the original answer may be a typo, while others are exploring the implications of using different variables in the formula.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the interval for t is between -π/2 and π/2, and there is a discussion about the potential for errors in the calculations leading to discrepancies in the expected answer of 2π².

trap
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Can someone please help me with this question?

x = 1-sint, y = 2+cost, rotate about y = 2

Find the surface area of the parametric curve.

I don't know how to do it with y=2, I only know how if the question askes for rotating about the x-axis.
The answer to the question is 2(pi)^2.
 
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trap said:
Can someone please help me with this question?

x = 1-sint, y = 2+cost, rotate about y = 2

Find the surface area of the parametric curve.

I don't know how to do it with y=2, I only know how if the question askes for rotating about the x-axis.
The answer to the question is 2(pi)^2.

Since you are rotating about y=2, that makes each of your y-values 2 less, so the equations become:

x = 1 - sin(t)
y = cos(t)

Now I think you can do the rest:

[tex]\text{SA}=2\pi\int_{0}^{2\pi}y\,\sqrt{\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2+\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2}\, dt[/tex]
 
Last edited:
I forgot to mention that the interval is t between (-pi/2, pi/2), how do i get the answer 2pi^2 with

[tex]\text{SA}=2\pi\int_{-\pi/2}^{\pi/2}y\,\sqrt{\left(\frac{ dx}{dt}\right)^2+\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2}\, dt[/tex] ??

so i have... dx = -cost
dy = -sint

here's what I've done..but couldn't get the answer

[tex]\text{SA}=2\pi\int_{-\pi/2}^{\pi/2}y\,\sqrt{(sint)^2+(cost)^2}\, dt[/tex]

[tex]=2\pi\int_{-\pi/2}^{\pi/2}y\,\sqrt{1}\, dt[/tex]

[tex]=2\pi\int_{-\pi/2}^{\pi/2}cost\, dt[/tex]

[tex]=2\pi\sin(\pi/2) - 2\pi\sin(-\pi/2)[/tex]

[tex]=4\pi[/tex]
 
Last edited:
but i got the formula of surface area from my textbook, which is,

[tex]\text{SA}=2\pi\int_{}^{}y\,\sqrt{\left(\frac{ dx}{dt}\right)^2+\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2}\, dt[/tex]
 
trap said:
but i got the formula of surface area from my textbook, which is,

[tex]\text{SA}=2\pi\int_{}^{}y\,\sqrt{\left(\frac{ dx}{dt}\right)^2+\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2}\, dt[/tex]

Yes, right. I fixed it sorry about that. Anyways, using this you should come up with your answer (I myself am coming up with -4π). Are you sure it's 2π2?

The only way I get 2π2 is by the following:

[tex]2\pi\int_{\frac{\pi}{2}}^{\frac{3\pi}{2}}\cos^2{t}\,dt[/tex]

...but you clearly don't have a cos2(t)...
 
Last edited:
yes..the answer is supposed to be 2pi^2, unless it is a typo in the textbook
 
trap said:
yes..the answer is supposed to be 2pi^2, unless it is a typo in the textbook

It happens but I doubt that. Does anyone have any ideas why the work above isn't giving the correct answer?
 
i think you were suppose to multiplied by x(t) not y(t)
 

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