Equation to a rectangular Prism

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of solid geometry, specifically the ellipsoid and rectangular prism, and the equations associated with their coordinates. The ellipsoid is a quadratic surface represented by a Cartesian equation, while the rectangular prism is the sum of 6 planes and cannot be expressed as a single differentiable function. The conversation concludes with a suggestion to write equations for each of the prism's planes.
  • #1
michael pranit
6
0
Hello,
I am trying to understand the concept of solid geometry(spheres, cubes, polyhedra etc) as a function of their co-ordinates.
for example, the general ellipsoid, is a quadratic surface which is given in Cartesian coordinates by:
(x^2/a^2)+(y^2/b^2)+(z^2/c^2)=1
a,b,c being the semi axis.
-Is there an equation to a rectangular prism as a function of the x,y,z coordinates like the ellipsoid?
Could someone clarify/explain.
Any help will be appreciated.
Thank you
 
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  • #2
The rectangular prism is the the sum of 6 planes. Do you know the equations for planes?
 
  • #3
Because a "rectangular prism" is not smooth (it has edges and corners) you cannot give it as one differentiable function. You can, as Matterwave suggests, write equations for each of the six planes.
 

1. What is the equation for finding the volume of a rectangular prism?

The equation for finding the volume of a rectangular prism is V = l * w * h, where V is the volume, l is the length, w is the width, and h is the height.

2. How do you find the surface area of a rectangular prism?

The surface area of a rectangular prism can be found by adding the areas of all of its faces. The formula for surface area is SA = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh, where SA is the surface area, l is the length, w is the width, and h is the height.

3. Can you find the dimensions of a rectangular prism if you know its volume and surface area?

Yes, if you know the volume and surface area of a rectangular prism, you can find its dimensions by using a system of equations. You would set the volume equation (V = l * w * h) equal to the surface area equation (SA = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh) and solve for the missing variables.

4. How does the volume of a rectangular prism change if you increase its dimensions?

The volume of a rectangular prism will increase if you increase any of its dimensions. This is because volume is directly proportional to length, width, and height. For example, if you double the length of a rectangular prism, its volume will also double.

5. Can the formula for a rectangular prism be used for other shapes?

No, the formula for a rectangular prism can only be used for rectangular prisms. Other shapes have their own unique formulas for finding volume and surface area.

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