Find Arc Length with TI-Nspire Calculator

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around using the TI-Nspire calculator to find the arc length of a curve. Participants explore the functionalities of the calculator, including its integration capabilities and any specific arc length functions it may have.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the method to find arc length using the TI-Nspire calculator.
  • Another participant suggests that while there may not be a dedicated arc length function, the integral formula for arc length can be used with the calculator's integration capabilities.
  • A different participant claims that there is an arc length function available on the TI-Nspire, providing a link for reference.
  • One user expresses disappointment that the arc length function does not automatically solve for the arc length from the original equation, indicating a preference for a more straightforward approach.
  • A participant with experience using the TI-89 suggests that it is possible to write a program to compute arc length by prompting for limits and the function, highlighting their enjoyment of programming calculators.
  • Another participant shares their positive experience with the TI-Nspire, noting its ease of use compared to the TI-89, and expresses a preference for utilizing the calculator's built-in features.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the availability and functionality of an arc length function on the TI-Nspire. Some believe it lacks a dedicated function, while others assert that such a function exists. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the effectiveness and utility of the calculator's features for this purpose.

Contextual Notes

Some participants rely on their experiences with different models of TI calculators, which may influence their perspectives on the functionalities available for calculating arc length. There is also uncertainty regarding the specific capabilities of the TI-Nspire in comparison to other models.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for users of the TI-Nspire calculator, particularly those interested in mathematical applications such as arc length calculations, as well as individuals exploring programming options for graphing calculators.

ineedhelpnow
Messages
649
Reaction score
0
how do i use the nspire to find arc length?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I don't think that there is an arclength function. But the formula for arclength is $\displaystyle \begin{align*} \int_a^b{ \sqrt{ 1 + \left( \frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} \right) ^2 } \, \mathrm{d}x } \end{align*}$, and the TI N Spire does have the ability to solve integrals.
 
what i normally do is use the integration function but i noticed there was something for arc length and i figured it would be much easier (if i knew how to use it) using that instead of inputting the whole thing.

oh that's all it does? i thought all i had to was put in the original equation and it would solve. never mind then. function isn't as useful as i thought. thanks tho.
 
ineedhelpnow said:
what i normally do is use the integration function but i noticed there was something for arc length and i figured it would be much easier (if i knew how to use it) using that instead of inputting the whole thing.

oh that's all it does? i thought all i had to was put in the original equation and it would solve. never mind then. function isn't as useful as i thought. thanks tho.

I don't own one of those, but I own a TI-89 and have owned many TI graphing calculators in the past, and I am certain you could write a program that would prompt you for the limits and the function, and then would compute the arc length and then output the result. I used to love programming my calculators. :D
 
i used to have the ti-89 but i didnt really use it for anything besides simple stuff. once i got the ti-nspire, it was way easier because everything is already formatted. i think the best idea is to just use with the calculator offers me because I am pretty confident ill break it otherwise. :D
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
6K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
12K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K