How can I use integrals to find the circumference of an ellipse?

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    Circumference Ellipse
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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the mathematical challenge of calculating the circumference of an ellipse using integrals. The user presents two integrals: one in rectangular coordinates and another using parametric equations. The first integral, involving the derivative of the function, fails to incorporate both semi-major (a) and semi-minor (b) axes effectively. The second integral, which uses parametric equations, shows potential but remains unsolved. The user seeks assistance in manipulating these integrals to derive a formula for the perimeter of an ellipse.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integral calculus, specifically techniques for solving definite integrals.
  • Familiarity with parametric equations and their applications in geometry.
  • Knowledge of derivatives and their role in calculating arc lengths.
  • Basic concepts of ellipses, including semi-major and semi-minor axes.
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  • Explore the derivation of the circumference of an ellipse using the complete elliptic integral of the second kind.
  • Learn about numerical integration techniques to approximate the perimeter of an ellipse.
  • Investigate trigonometric substitution methods for simplifying integrals involving square roots.
  • Review resources on the properties of ellipses and their geometric interpretations.
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Mathematicians, physics students, and anyone interested in advanced calculus and geometric applications, particularly those focused on the properties of ellipses and integral calculus.

StephenPrivitera
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I have two integrals to give the circumference of an ellipse. I can't solve either.
First, using rectangular coordinates,
1/2s=S{[1+(f'(x))^2]^(1/2)}dx taken from x=-a to x=a
Since, y^2=b/a(a^2-x^2)
2y*y'=-2bx/a
y'=-bx/(ay)
[f'(x)]^2=(x^2)/(a^2-x^2)
At this point, I'm already uncomfortable because b is no longer in the equation, and clearly the circumference should depend on both a and b.
Next, using parametrics, I have
s=S[(bcosx)^2+(asinx)^2]^(1/2)dx from x=0 to x=2pi
This integral shows more promise for finding the answer. I expect the answer to be C=pi(a+b) simply because this would reduce to C=(2pi)r for the case when a=b. I've tried manipulating the second integral in every way possible to fit in trig substitution but it just won't work. It doesn't look like integration by parts will help. Of course, there's always the possiblity that these integrals do not give the circumference of an ellipse at all. Even so, it would be satisfying to find an answer.
Can someone give me a hint?
 
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It should not rightly be called the 'circumference,' which is a word reserved for circles. It is better to call it the 'perimeter.'

This is, in fact, a complicated topic. Here's a good resource to get you started:

http://home.att.net/~numericana/answer/ellipse.htm

- Warren
 
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