Expressing polar equation as a Cartesian equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on converting the polar equation r = 1 - cos(θ) into Cartesian form. Key equations utilized include x = r*cos(θ), y = r*sin(θ), and r² = x² + y². The participants express confusion regarding the conversion process, indicating a need for clarification on the relationships between polar and Cartesian coordinates. The solution involves substituting the polar equations into the Cartesian framework to derive the final expression.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polar coordinates and their relationship to Cartesian coordinates
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, specifically cosine and sine
  • Knowledge of basic algebraic manipulation
  • Ability to interpret and apply equations in different coordinate systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conversion process from polar to Cartesian coordinates in detail
  • Learn about the implications of the polar equation r = 1 - cos(θ) on graphing
  • Explore examples of converting various polar equations to Cartesian form
  • Investigate the geometric interpretations of polar and Cartesian equations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying mathematics, particularly those focusing on calculus or analytical geometry, as well as educators seeking to clarify the conversion between polar and Cartesian coordinates.

Bipolarity
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Homework Statement



Express the following equation in Cartesian form
[tex]r = 1 - cos(θ)[/tex]

Homework Equations


[tex]x = r*cos(θ)[/tex]
[tex]y = r*sin(θ)[/tex]
[tex]r^{2} = x^{2} + y^{2}[/tex]
[tex]tan(θ) = \frac{y}{x}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea... a hint would be nice thanks!

BiP
 
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Bipolarity said:

Homework Statement



Express the following equation in Cartesian form
[tex]r = 1 - cos(θ)[/tex]

Homework Equations


[tex]x = r*cos(θ)[/tex]
[tex]y = r*sin(θ)[/tex]
[tex]r^{2} = x^{2} + y^{2}[/tex]
[tex]tan(θ) = \frac{y}{x}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea... a hint would be nice thanks!

BiP

If [itex]x=r\cos\theta[/itex], what is [itex]\cos\theta[/itex]? If [itex]x^2+y^2=r^2[/itex], and [itex]r\geq 0[/itex], what is [itex]r[/itex]?
 
gabbagabbahey said:
If [itex]x=r\cos\theta[/itex], what is [itex]\cos\theta[/itex]? If [itex]x^2+y^2=r^2[/itex], and [itex]r\geq 0[/itex], what is [itex]r[/itex]?

Thanks!

BiP
 

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