Find the length of the curve given by the parametric representation

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The discussion focuses on calculating the length of a curve defined by the parametric representation r(t) = t^2(cos t, sin t, cos 2t, sin 2t) for the interval 1 ≤ t ≤ +1. Participants clarify that the semi-colons in the representation separate the four dimensions of the curve. To find the length, the formula involves integrating the magnitude of the tangent vector r'(t) over the specified interval. There is some confusion regarding the layout of the question, but the essential approach revolves around understanding the components of the parametric equation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the mathematical notation to solve the problem effectively.
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Find the length of the curve given by the parametric representation...

Homework Statement


Calculate the length of the curve given by the parametric representation
r(t) = t2(cos t; sin t; cos 2t; sin 2t) for 1≤ t ≤+1:


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know that you need to assume: dx/dt ≥ 0 for α≤t≤β

Then you use the formula for 'L'

Imstruggling with the layout of the question.. Why are there semi-colons between the sin and cos terms?

If someone could explain this that would be great.

Regards as always.
 
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There are probably semi-colons to distinguish between the four different dimensions. So x(t) = t^2 cos(t), y(t) = t^2 sint, etc.
 


I presume you know that the length of the curve given by r(t), from t= a to t= b, is
\int_a^b ||r'(t)|| dt
where r'(t) is the tangent vector and the || || is the length of that vector.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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