Another Polar Coordinates + Integration Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating in polar coordinates over a specific region defined by the curves r = 3 + 2 sin θ and r = 2. Participants explore how to determine the limits of integration for θ and how to visualize the curves involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests plotting the curves to find the points where they intersect, indicating that the curves cross where they have equal r values.
  • Another participant proposes setting the r values equal to solve for θ, and then using a sketch to determine the appropriate limits for integration.
  • There is a question about how to plot r = 3 + 2 sin θ without a graphing calculator, with a suggestion to create a table of values for specific angles.
  • Several posts include unrelated inquiries about starting new threads on different topics, indicating a lack of focus on the original question.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to plot the curves and find their intersection points to set up the integral, but there is no consensus on the specific limits of integration or the best method for plotting the curves.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about how to visualize the curve r = 3 + 2 sin θ without prior knowledge of its characteristics, indicating a potential gap in understanding the graphical representation of polar equations.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals seeking assistance with polar coordinates, integration techniques, or those interested in visualizing mathematical curves in polar form.

Legendre
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I came across this example on the net :

We are integrating over the region that is the area inside of r = 3 + 2 sin θ and outside of r = 2, working in polar coordinates (r,θ).

What is the limits of integration for θ?


# I already know the answer. But I have no idea how to arrive at the solution.

# Do I sketch r = 3 + 2 sin θ and r = 2? r = 2 is just circle centered at origin with radius 2. What about r = 3 + 2 sin θ?
 
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Yes, you should plot them. The curves cross where they have equal r values. Set the r's equal and solve for theta. Then, using your picture to see which region is being asked for, set up an integral like this:

[tex]A = \int_{\theta_0}^{\theta_1} \int_{r_{inner}}^{r_{outer}} r dr d\theta[/tex]

Check your picture and be sure you are integrating in the positive direction for theta.
 
LCKurtz said:
Yes, you should plot them. The curves cross where they have equal r values. Set the r's equal and solve for theta. Then, using your picture to see which region is being asked for, set up an integral like this:

[tex]A = \int_{\theta_0}^{\theta_1} \int_{r_{inner}}^{r_{outer}} r dr d\theta[/tex]

Check your picture and be sure you are integrating in the positive direction for theta.

How do I plot r = 3 + 2 sin θ without resorting to a graphing calculator? (and without knowing that equation represents a Limaçon)
 
Help! I just got to this site because i am looking for help with wind generators but can't figure out how to start a new thead.

can you help or direct me to where I need to go?
 
Legendre said:
How do I plot r = 3 + 2 sin θ without resorting to a graphing calculator? (and without knowing that equation represents a Limaçon)

Make a table of values. For every 30 degrees (pi/6) value of theta plot r.
 
remadl700 said:
Help! I just got to this site because i am looking for help with wind generators but can't figure out how to start a new thead.

can you help or direct me to where I need to go?

At the top of the page click on Physics Forums. Then click on one that looks good for that topic. Then click on the "New Topic" button there at the top.
 

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