Change to polar coordinates integration Problem

In summary, the conversation discusses using a change of variables to polar coordinates in order to integrate y/(x^2+y^2) for a given range. The conversation also mentions the use of the Pythagorean Theorem and finding the range of r based on the value of y. After some guidance from other individuals, the person was able to find the correct integral and solve for the answer.
  • #1
Delphi27
2
0

Homework Statement



Integrate y/(x^2+y^2) for x^2+y^2<1 and y> 1/2 ; use change of variables to polar coordinates

Homework Equations



THe above



The Attempt at a Solution



the variables transform as

y=rsinz
x=rcosz, where z is an angle between pi/6 and 5*pi/6 = which is the ArcSin of 1/2

That is sinz > 1/2 means pi/6 < z < 5*pi/6,

The Integral in polar coordinates becomes

Integral of [ r*sinz / { (r*sinz)^2 + (r*cosz)^2 } ] * r drdz

This simplifies to

Integral of [r*sinz / { r^2 * 1 } ]*r drdz, or

=Integral [ sinz drdz ]

Now y > 1/2 means that r must be between [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2) and 1

by the Pythagorean Theorum.

So i end up with the double integral

Integral rsinz dz evaluated at r = 1, minus same evaluated at
r = [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2)

So I then get Integral [ 1 - [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2) ] * sinz dz.

The book gives the answer (sqrt 3 ) - pi/3, that is after evaluating what I would think would be the above from z = pi/6 to 5*pi/6.

The integral I came up with after substituting the range of r stated as functions of z, does not seem to integrate and must be wrong -

Can anyone tell me where I went off track ?

Would be much appreciated - hours on this, and cannot get it.
 
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  • #2
.

Hello Delphi27. Welcome to PF !

Delphi27 said:

Homework Statement



Integrate y/(x^2+y^2) for x^2+y^2<1 and y> 1/2 ; use change of variables to polar coordinates

Homework Equations



THe above

The Attempt at a Solution



the variables transform as

y=rsinz
x=rcosz, where z is an angle between pi/6 and 5*pi/6 = which is the ArcSin of 1/2

That is sinz > 1/2 means pi/6 < z < 5*pi/6,

The Integral in polar coordinates becomes

Integral of [ r*sinz / { (r*sinz)^2 + (r*cosz)^2 } ] * r drdz

This simplifies to

Integral of [r*sinz / { r^2 * 1 } ]*r drdz, or

=Integral [ sinz drdz ]

Now y > 1/2 means that r must be between [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2) and 1
Why not express this in terms of sin(z), rather than cos(z) ?

You know that y = r sin(z), right?

So y = 1/2 becomes r sin(z) = 1/2.

by the Pythagorean Theorum.

So i end up with the double integral

Integral rsinz dz evaluated at r = 1, minus same evaluated at
r = [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2)

So I then get Integral [ 1 - [ (1/2)^ + (cosz)^2 ] ^ (1/2) ] * sinz dz.

The book gives the answer (sqrt 3 ) - pi/3, that is after evaluating what I would think would be the above from z = pi/6 to 5*pi/6.

The integral I came up with after substituting the range of r stated as functions of z, does not seem to integrate and must be wrong -

Can anyone tell me where I went off track ?

Would be much appreciated - hours on this, and cannot get it.
 
  • #3
[itex] y > \frac {1} {2} [/itex] means [itex]r sin z > \frac {1} {2}[/itex]
 
  • #4
Volko and SammyS --- thanks so much - you guys got me on the right track !
 
  • #5
Delphi27 said:
Volko and SammyS --- thanks so much - you guys got me on the right track !
You're very welcome !
 

1. What are polar coordinates and why are they used in integration problems?

Polar coordinates are a system of locating points in a plane using a distance from the origin and an angle. They are often used in integration problems because they simplify the calculations and allow for more efficient solutions.

2. How do you convert a function from Cartesian coordinates to polar coordinates for integration?

To convert a function from Cartesian coordinates to polar coordinates, you can use the following formulas: x = r cos θ and y = r sin θ. This will allow you to express the function in terms of r and θ, which can then be integrated using the appropriate techniques.

3. What is the difference between single and double integration in polar coordinates?

In single integration, the limits of integration are constants and the integral is taken with respect to a single variable, either r or θ. In double integration, the limits of integration are functions of both r and θ, and the integral is taken with respect to both variables.

4. Can polar coordinates be used to solve any integration problem?

No, polar coordinates are best suited for problems with circular or symmetric boundaries. If the boundary of the region is not circular or symmetric, it may be more efficient to use a different coordinate system for integration.

5. How can I check if my solution to a polar coordinates integration problem is correct?

You can check your solution by converting it back to Cartesian coordinates and comparing it to the original function. If they are equivalent, then your solution is correct. You can also use online integration calculators or ask a peer or instructor to review your work.

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