Arc Length of e^5x from 0 to ln(4)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the arc length of the function e^(5x) from 0 to ln(4) using integral calculus. The integral formula applied is ∫[0, ln(4)] √(1 + (dy/dx)²) dx, where dy/dx is the derivative of e^(5x). The user attempted to solve the integral but mistakenly calculated the surface area instead of the arc length, leading to confusion regarding the correct application of Wolfram Alpha for verification. The correct approach involves ensuring the integral is set up properly for arc length rather than surface area.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integral calculus and arc length formulas
  • Familiarity with derivatives and the chain rule
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities, specifically secant and tangent functions
  • Experience using computational tools like Wolfram Alpha for verification
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the arc length formula in integral calculus
  • Practice solving integrals involving exponential functions
  • Learn how to use Wolfram Alpha for calculus problems
  • Explore the relationship between surface area and arc length in calculus
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on arc length and surface area calculations, as well as educators looking to clarify common misconceptions in integral applications.

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Homework Statement



http://i47.tinypic.com/1z6naa.jpg

Note... I used wolfram alpha to get the answer, I did not get it myself... So I still need help. The answer shown is correct, so you'll know if you got it.

Homework Equations



Integral [0, ln(4)] sqrt(1+(dy/dx)^2)

The Attempt at a Solution



2pi Integral [0, ln(4)] y*sqrt(1+(dy/dx)^2)

2pi Integral [0, ln(4)] (e^5x)*sqrt(1+5e^5x^2)dx

u = 5e^5x
du = 25e^5x dx
dx = du/25e^5x

2pi Integral [0, ln(4)] (e^5x)*sqrt(1+u^2)du/25e^5x

2pi Integral [0, ln(4)] sqrt(1+u^2)du

u = tan(t)

2pi/25 Integral [0, ln(4)] sqrt(1+tan^2(t))du

2pi/25 Integral [0, ln(4)] sqrt(sec^2(t))du

2pi/25 Integral [0, ln(4)] sec(t)du

du = sec^2(t)dt
dt = du*cos^2(t)

2pi/25 Integral [0, ln(4)] cos^2(t)/cos(t)dt

2pi/25 Integral [0, ln(4)] cos(t)dt

Edit bounds...

[arctan(5), arctan(5e^(5*ln(4)))]

Then get ****ed over with an answer of .0048...

What did I do wrong.
 
Last edited:
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the question asks the surface area and not the arc length. Perhaps this is your mistake
 
I have never heard of wolfram alpha before...very interesting. What did you type into get the answer to your question? I can't figure it out...
 

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