Arc Length Problem: Find Length from y=125 to y=216

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the arc length of the curve defined by the equation x=3y^(4/3)-(3/32)y^(2/3) from y=125 to y=216. The user correctly identifies the formula for arc length as Arc Length=sqrt(1+(dx/dy)^2) and computes the derivative dx/dy as 4y^(1/3)-(1/16)y^(-1/3). However, the user encounters an error in the integration process, leading to an incorrect arc length result of 2105.03125. The key takeaway is the importance of correctly applying the integral of the square root of the sum of squares in arc length calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically derivatives and integrals
  • Familiarity with arc length formulas in parametric equations
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation, including squaring and simplifying expressions
  • Experience with evaluating definite integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the arc length formula in calculus
  • Practice solving arc length problems using different curves
  • Learn about numerical integration techniques for complex functions
  • Explore common pitfalls in calculus to avoid errors in calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus and arc length problems, as well as anyone looking to improve their skills in integral calculus and curve analysis.

antiflag403
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Hey,
I need some help with an arc length question. It is:
Find the length of the curve:
x=3y^(4/3)-(3/32)y^(2/3) from y=125 to y= 216
So i know i need to use Arc Length=sqrt(1+(dx/dy)^2) but i can't seem to get the right answer.
I have the derivative as 4y^(1/3)-(1/16)y^(-1/3). Squaring that i get:
((4y^(1/3)-(1/16)y^(-1/3))^2
Then took the square root of one and the square root of the above to get:
1+4y^(1/3)-(1/16)y^(-1/3). Then I take the integral of this from 125 to 216 and get an answer of 2105.03125, but this isn't right.
Can someone tell me where i went wrong and point me in the right direction.
Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
the square root of x^2 + y^2 doesn't equal the square root of x^2 plus the square root of y^2. The square root of 25 plus 25 equals the square root of 50 which doesn't equal 10 (the square root of 25 + the square root of 25) just an example.
 

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