How to Choose Limits for Double Integrals?

In summary: It's possible that there was a mistake in your integration or in setting up the limits of integration. It's also possible that your calculator or computer program gave you incorrect answers. It's always a good idea to double check your work and make sure everything is correct.
  • #1
applestrudle
64
0

Homework Statement



∫∫ydxdy over the triangle with vertices (-1,0), (0,2), (2,0)

Homework Equations




I did it like this and got the right answer:

∫dy ∫ydx

this first:
∫ydx from x = (y-2)/2 to x = 2-y

then ∫dy from y = 0 to y = 2

I got 2 which is correct


but when I tried another method, splitting them up across the y-axis i got 8/3:

I did I = A+B

A = ∫dx∫ydy

∫ydy from y = 0 to y = 2x+2

then I integrated from x = -1 to x =0 (I got 2/3)

B = ∫dx∫ydy

∫ydy from y =0 to y = -x+2

then I integrated wrt x from x = 0 to x = 2 (I got 2)

so the second answer was 8/3


Why was the second one wrong? I keep getting questions wrong because of the limits I choose! Could someone help me out please?




The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
applestrudle said:

Homework Statement



∫∫ydxdy over the triangle with vertices (-1,0), (0,2), (2,0)

Homework Equations




I did it like this and got the right answer:

∫dy ∫ydx

this first:
∫ydx from x = (y-2)/2 to x = 2-y

then ∫dy from y = 0 to y = 2

I got 2 which is correct


but when I tried another method, splitting them up across the y-axis i got 8/3:

I did I = A+B

A = ∫dx∫ydy

∫ydy from y = 0 to y = 2x+2

then I integrated from x = -1 to x =0 (I got 2/3)

B = ∫dx∫ydy

∫ydy from y =0 to y = -x+2

then I integrated wrt x from x = 0 to x = 2 (I got 2)

so the second answer was 8/3


Why was the second one wrong? I keep getting questions wrong because of the limits I choose! Could someone help me out please?




The Attempt at a Solution


Your limits look to be correct with both methods. Without you showing your calculations instead of just giving us your answers, we can't tell where your mistake is.
 

1. What is the purpose of using double integral limits?

Double integral limits are used to define the boundaries of a two-dimensional region over which the integration is being performed. They help determine the area of the region and can also be used to calculate volume, mass, and other physical quantities.

2. How do I determine the limits for a double integral?

The limits for a double integral depend on the type of region being integrated and the orientation of the coordinate axes. They can be determined by graphing the region and identifying the boundaries, or by using the equations of the curves that define the region.

3. Can double integral limits be negative?

Yes, double integral limits can be negative. The limits can be any real numbers, including negative numbers, as long as they define a valid region for integration.

4. What happens if the limits for a double integral are undefined?

If the limits for a double integral are undefined, it means that the region of integration is not well-defined or the function being integrated is not defined over the region. In this case, the integral cannot be evaluated.

5. How do I change the order of double integral limits?

To change the order of double integral limits, you can use the substitution method or the Fubini's theorem. These methods allow you to switch the order of integration, which can sometimes make the integration process easier or more efficient.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
136
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
483
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
418
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
442
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
820
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
977
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
365
Back
Top