Double Integration Using Polar Coordinates | Calculating Bounds of Integration

  • Thread starter brad sue
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In summary, to solve the given double integration problem using polar coordinates, one must first use the coordinate transformation equations x=rcos(theta) and y=rsin(theta), as well as their inverse equations, to convert the bounds of integration. Drawing a picture is also recommended to visualize the problem. The outer integral will have x ranging from 0 to 1/2, while the inner integral will have y ranging from 0 to sqrt(1-x^2). This represents the upper half of a circle with radius 1 and center at (0,0). To find the bounds for r, one must imagine a line "sweeping" over the area of integration, starting at theta=0 and ending at theta=pi/
  • #1
brad sue
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Hi can someone help me with the double integration:
Sorry I don't know how to use the LATEX code.
it is a double integration
The first integration goes from 1/2 to1. the second integration goes from 0 to sqrt(1-x^2). there is no function after ,just dy dx.
I am asked to calculate the integral using polar coordinates.
I don't know how to find the bounds of integration corresponding for r.
Thank you
B
 
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  • #2
I love giving a shot at the problems you post Brad, they're always a tad more challenging than the calculus problems we usually see.

To convert the bounds to polar coordinates, you must use (fiddle with) the coordinate transformations equations: they are

x=rcosO
y=rsinO

and also the inverse ones (what you probably missed):

r²=x²+y²
O = Arctg(y/x)

You can also draw the surface of integration and try to figure out what the bounds are in terms of r and O.
 
  • #3
First rule for any problem like this: draw a picture.
Since the "outer integral" is [itex]\int_0^{\frac{1}{2}} dx[/itex], x can run from 0 to [itex]\frac{1}{2}[/itex]. The "inner integral" is [itex]\int_0^\sqrt{1-x^2} dy[/itex] so y ranges from 0 to [itex]\sqrt{1-x^2}[/itex].
[itex]y= \sqrt{1-x^2}[/itex] is the upper half of the circle [itex]x^2+ y^2= 1[/itex], the circle of radius 1 centered at (0,0). Draw that circle and the line x= 1/2 to see the area of integration.
Now, imagine an line from the origin "sweeping" over that area. The line starts horizontal and rotates up until it passes through [itex]\left(\frac{1}{2}, \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}\right)[/itex]. That is, the angle clearly starts at [itex]\theta= 0[/tex] and goes to [itex]\theta= \frac{\pi}{3}[/itex].
Radially, for each [itex]\theta[/itex] we move from the line x= 1/2 to the circle. [itex]x= rcos(\theta)= \frac{1}{2}[/itex] is the same as [itex]r= \frac{1}{2cos(\theta)}= \frac{1}{2}sec(\theta)[/itex]. The limits of integration for the r integral are [itex]\frac{1}{2}sec(\theta)[/itex] and 1.
Don't forget to replace dxdy with [itex]rdrd\theta[/itex]
 
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  • #4
HallsofIvy posted the other way of doing it; what one might call the "geometric way", as opposed to the "algebraic way". If you doubt the answer you obtained through any of the two ways, do it the other way to see if you get the same thing.
 
  • #5
Thak you to you both quasar987 and HallsofIvy. The both methods worked.
I found : pi/6 + sqrt(3)/8
sorry to reply now I was busy with exams.


B
 

1. What is the concept of double integration using polar coordinates?

Double integration using polar coordinates is a method of calculating the bounds of integration for a given function by converting the rectangular coordinates into polar coordinates. This involves using the polar coordinate system, which represents points on a plane using a distance (r) from the origin and an angle (θ) from the positive x-axis. It is often used in situations where the function being integrated has circular or radial symmetry.

2. How is the conversion from rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates done in double integration?

To convert from rectangular coordinates (x,y) to polar coordinates (r,θ), the following equations are used:
r = √(x² + y²)
θ = tan⁻¹(y/x)

3. What are the steps for calculating the bounds of integration using double integration in polar coordinates?

The steps for calculating the bounds of integration using double integration in polar coordinates are as follows:
Step 1: Determine the region of integration in the xy-plane.
Step 2: Convert the region into polar coordinates.
Step 3: Set up the integral in terms of r and θ, using the conversion equations.
Step 4: Determine the limits of integration for r and θ based on the region of integration in polar coordinates.
Step 5: Evaluate the double integral.

4. What are some common applications of double integration using polar coordinates?

Double integration using polar coordinates is commonly used in physics and engineering to calculate areas, volumes, and moments of inertia for objects with circular or radial symmetry. It is also used in solving certain types of differential equations and in evaluating complex integrals.

5. Are there any limitations or special considerations when using double integration with polar coordinates?

One limitation of using double integration with polar coordinates is that it is only applicable for functions with circular or radial symmetry. It also requires a good understanding of polar coordinates and the conversion process. Additionally, when converting from rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates, special attention must be paid to the signs of the coordinates, as they can affect the bounds of integration and the final result.

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