Differential Geometry, curve length

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the calculation of curve length in differential geometry, specifically using the formula L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}(\sum_{i,j=1}^{2}g_{ij}(c(t))c_{i}'(t)c_{j}'(t))^{1/2}dt. The user attempts to solve the integral with the parameterization c_{1}'(t)=-Rsin(t) and c_{2}'(t)=Rcos(t), leading to confusion regarding the correct form of the integral. The user identifies a discrepancy between their solution, which yields L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}\frac{1}{sin(t)}dt, and the provided solution that results in L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}\frac{1}{cos(t)}dt. This raises questions about the accuracy of the textbook solution versus the user's approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential geometry concepts, particularly curve length.
  • Familiarity with integral calculus and antiderivatives.
  • Knowledge of parameterization in curves.
  • Proficiency in using mathematical notation and identities.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the curve length formula in differential geometry.
  • Study the properties of the metric tensor g_{ij} in the context of curves.
  • Learn about parameterization techniques for curves in R^2.
  • Explore the use of trigonometric identities in integral calculus.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying differential geometry, as well as anyone involved in solving complex integrals related to curve lengths.

Stimpon
Messages
32
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



paonb.png


Homework Equations



[itex]L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}(\sum_{i,j=1}^{2}g_{ij}(c(t))c_{i}'(t)c_{j}'(t))^{1/2}dt[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



So [itex]g_{ij}(x,y)=0[/itex] for [itex]i{\neq}j[/itex], [itex]c_{1}'(t)=-Rsin(t)[/itex], [itex]c_{2}'(t)=Rcos(t)[/itex]

so [itex]L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}(\frac{1}{((Rsin(t))^{2}}R^{2}(sin^{2}(t)+cos^{2}(t))^{1/2}dt=\int_{a}^{b}\frac{1}{sin(t)}dt[/itex]

However the solutions has

[itex]L[c]:=\int_{a}^{b}(\frac{1}{((Rcos(t))^{2}}R^{2}(sin^{2}(t)+cos^{2}(t))^{1/2}dt=\int_{a}^{b}\frac{1}{cos(t)}dt[/itex]

and he then goes on to use the given identity to find an antiderivative for [itex]\frac{1}{cost}[/itex]

but I don't see how he has cost where I have sint.

Is he making a mistake or am I?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
I wonder how come the hint is right but the solution in the text isn't.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K