Arc length of vector function curve

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the arc length of a vector function curve defined by two different parameterizations. The first involves a polynomial vector function, while the second is an exponential-trigonometric combination. Participants are exploring the complexities of evaluating the integrals required for arc length calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to evaluate the arc length integral for both parameterizations but expresses concern over the complexity of the integrals involved. Some participants question the assumptions made about the integrals and suggest considering simplifications or clarifications regarding the absolute value in the integral.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the problem, with some participants providing clarifications and suggestions for simplification. The original poster acknowledges a realization that may change their approach to the first question, indicating a shift in understanding. However, there is no explicit consensus on the methods being discussed.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes that the problems seem more complicated than expected for their current level of study, suggesting a potential mismatch between their understanding and the complexity of the tasks. There is also mention of previous examples provided by the professor that may not directly apply to these cases.

hadroneater
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Homework Statement


1. Find the length of the curve from t=0 to t=1.
r(t) = <2t, t^2, (1/3)t^3>

2. Reparametrize the curve with respect to arc length measured from the point where t=0 in the direction of increasing t.
r(t) = <e^(2t)cos2t, 2, e^(2t)sin2t>

Homework Equations


[tex]S = \int{r'(t)} dt[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


1. I take the definite integral of the absolute value of r'(t).

r'(t) = <2, 2t, t^2>
S = integral[sqrt(4 + 4t^2 + t^4)dt] from [0,1]
This is a pretty complicated integral to solve. It's not that I can't solve it but I think I'm doing something wrong because this is only the second practice question of the section so I don't think it should be that complicated. Our prof has only show us the case for a helix, so the sine and cosine simplify to some number with no "t" terms in the integrand.

2. Basically, the same problem as number 1. I need to use the arc length function to find s in term of t. But I'm having trouble evaluating the integral for the arc length.
r'(t) becomes a pretty complicated function by itself but when you square the components, square root them and then take the integral of that from [0, t], it becomes very messy. I don't think I can solve this one. So again, I'm thinking I'm doing something wrong conceptually.
 
Last edited:
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note that (t^2+2)^2 = ...
 
for the 2nd, consider some trig inequalities to simpilfy
 
note just to clarify, though its looks like you're already doing it, but you need the absolute value to show you're intergating a scalar function:
[tex]s = \int |r'(t)|dt[/tex]
 
Alright, I guess I was too tired. I didn't realize the obvious factor for the 1st question. And the 2nd question isn't hard to integrate at all.

Thanks.
 

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