Calc2: Solid of revolution about y=2 question

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the volume of a solid of revolution using the Disk or Washer method for the region bounded by the curves y=sqrt(x), y=2, and x=0, revolving around the line y=2. The limits of integration are established as [0,4]. Two expressions for R(x) were evaluated: R(x) = 2 - sqrt(x) and R(x) = sqrt(x) - 2, both yielding the same volume of 8pi/3. The consensus is that R(x) = 2 - sqrt(x) is the preferred representation as it aligns with the conventional approach for this type of problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Disk or Washer method for volume calculation
  • Familiarity with integration techniques in calculus
  • Knowledge of the functions involved: y=sqrt(x) and y=2
  • Ability to set limits of integration based on bounded regions
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  • Study the application of the Disk Method in different scenarios
  • Explore the Washer Method for solids of revolution
  • Learn about shifting graphs and their impact on volume calculations
  • Practice problems involving volume of solids of revolution around various axes
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on volume calculations of solids of revolution, as well as educators looking for examples to illustrate the Disk and Washer methods.

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Hi All, I had a question about this problem I was doing and was hoping to see if I did it right.

Homework Statement


Using Disk or Washer method Find volume of the solid generated by revolving the region bounded by y=sqrt(x), y=2, x=0 about the line y=2.

Homework Equations


Disk Method: pi*Integral (R(x))^2dx where R(x) is the distance from the axis of revolution to the regions boundaries.

The Attempt at a Solution



Limits of integration are [0,4]

I was getting caught up with what R(x) is. Since I am revolving up around y=2 I am wondering if the distance is 2-sqrt(x) or sqrt(x)-2

Doing the problem with R(x)=sqrt(x)-2 I get:

8pi/3

Doing the problem with R(x) = 2-sqrt(x) I get:

8pi/3 again...

So what I am wondering is, in the future, which one is the correct R(x)? or does it not matter? I feel like it should be 2-sqrt(x) because that more clearly sticks out to me as the radius but I am not sure.
 
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Think of it this way: if you simply shifted the graph down by a 2 units, then you could rotate it about the x-axis as you always have. To do so, of course, you would take [itex]\sqrt{x}-2[/itex] and rotate it about the x-axis. I think the typical approach, however, is take the radius to be 2 (like you said) and simply analyze [itex]2-\sqrt{x}[/itex].
 
Ok, that makes sense, Thanks!
 

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