How to Graph r=2cos(theta) in Cylindrical Coordinates?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on graphing the equation r=2cos(theta) in cylindrical coordinates. It highlights that for any angle θ, such as π/3, the radius r equals 1, indicating a set of vertical lines in three-dimensional space. The key to visualizing this graph is converting the cylindrical equation into rectangular coordinates, which simplifies the understanding of the horizontal cross-section as consistent across different z-values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cylindrical coordinates
  • Knowledge of converting between cylindrical and rectangular coordinates
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions
  • Basic graphing skills in three dimensions
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to convert cylindrical coordinates to rectangular coordinates
  • Explore the properties of polar equations in three dimensions
  • Study the implications of varying z-values in cylindrical graphs
  • Practice graphing other cylindrical equations for better comprehension
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on geometry and graphing in three dimensions, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of cylindrical coordinates.

ranger1716
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I'm having some trouble understanding exactly how to graph this problem using cylindrical coordinates. The coordinates they give me is r=2cos(theta)

How do I go about beginning to determine how to graph this with only the radius?
 
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Anywhere the angle is pi/3, r = 1, no matter what z is--the horizontal cross section is the same as you move up or down. The set of points satisfying that equation is therefore a set of vertical lines. To find the cross section (in a form that you can recognize) you could start by converting the equation to rectangular coordinates.
 

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