Find the surface area of the given solid

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The discussion centers on the lack of clarity regarding the limits of integration in a problem involving the surface area of a solid defined by the parametric equations x = t^2 and y = t^3. Participants agree that the problem statement is poorly written, as it does not specify the necessary constraints for the limits, which are indicated as 2 and 3. There is also a correction regarding the formula for surface area; the correct expression involves both derivatives dx/dt and dy/dt, rather than repeating dx/dt. The consensus is that the original source contains errors that necessitate seeking alternative resources for accurate calculations. Overall, the need for precise problem statements and correct formulas is emphasized for effective problem-solving.
chwala
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Homework Statement
See attached
Relevant Equations
Parametric equations
My question is on how did they determine the limits of integration i.e ##2## and ##3## as highlighted? Thanks

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The problem statement is incomplete.
 
I meant that the problem statement did not include the limits, i.e., poorly written.
 
Last edited:
Frabjous said:
I meant that the problem statement did not include the limits, i.e., poorly written.
I agree. The graph of the parametric curve ##x = t^2, y = t^3## lies in Quadrants I and IV, and is unbounded. There has to be additional but unstated constraints for the limits of integration that are shown.
 
@chwala : It seems in your square root, you're using ##\frac {dx}{dt} ##twice, rather than what I believe is correct, ##\frac {dx}{dt}, \frac{dy}{dt}##
 
WWGD said:
@chwala : It seems in your square root, you're using ##\frac {dx}{dt} ##twice, rather than what I believe is correct, ##\frac {dx}{dt}, \frac{dy}{dt}##
@WWGD This is not my working rather notes that i came across as indicated by the given internet link;

yes, there is a mistake there... it ought to be

$$Surface area (y-axis) = 2π \int_ a^b x(t)\sqrt{(x^{'})^2+(y{'})^2}$$

where

$$x^{'}=\dfrac{dx}{dt}$$

$$y^{'}=\dfrac{dy}{dt}$$
 
Since there seems to be two errors on that page, the missing information about boundaries, and the formula for surface area, perhaps you should look elsewhere for information on how to calculate surface area.