Angle at which cardioid hits the x-axis

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the angle at which the cardioid defined by the polar equation r = b + a cos(θ) intersects the x-axis. Participants emphasize the need for a quick method to plot the curve accurately without extensive calculations. The derivatives at θ = 0 and θ = π are straightforward, while finding other intersections requires more effort. Excel is suggested as a tool for quickly visualizing the curve.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polar coordinates and equations
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, specifically derivatives
  • Familiarity with the cardioid shape and its properties
  • Experience with graphing tools, such as Excel
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to derive polar equations to Cartesian coordinates
  • Study the concept of derivatives in polar coordinates
  • Explore graphing techniques using Excel for polar plots
  • Investigate the properties of cardioids and their applications in mathematics
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Students preparing for exams, mathematicians interested in polar curves, and anyone needing to plot cardioids accurately.

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How can we find the angle at which the curve of equation : r=b + acosθ hits the x-axis.
I want a fast way or method since I only need it to plot the graph well. I'm only asked to plot the curve well and pay attention to the angle at which the curve hits the x-axis and not to calculate and write how I got it.
 
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Looks like homework to me ... needs your attempt at solution. You know, PF rules and all that.

By the way, acosθ is slightly ambiguous...

upload_2016-12-4_13-21-40.png
 
Last edited:
Any Help said:
Hello,
Concerning my post, no it's not a homework. I only need a method to help me in my exam while drawing. Without going to the long way converting to XY equation the find derivative and that stuff.
Fair enough.
upload_2016-12-4_13-23-56.png

So what you want is ##\displaystyle {dy\over dx}## at y = 0, right ?
Write ##\ y = y(r,\theta) = y(\theta)\ ## and ##\ x = x(r,\theta) = x(\theta)\ ##
Take derivatives
Divide
On the way you see you need derivatives at ##\theta = 0, \ \theta = \pi## that are trivial.
The other two or four (at ##x=0## ) require some work.
I know of no quicker way.
(except using excel to cheat drawing the pictures :wink:)
upload_2016-12-4_13-34-21.png
 

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