Finding arc length using integration

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the arc length of the curve defined by the equation y=cosh-1(x) for the interval between x=1 and x=√5. The problem involves integration and potentially different methods of approach, including parametric equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration limits for calculating arc length, with some suggesting the need to convert between x and y limits. There is also a consideration of whether to use dx/dy or dy/dx for differentiation, raising questions about the differentiation of y=cosh-1(x).

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different methods and clarifying integration limits. Some guidance has been offered regarding the integration process, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach or final solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of integrating with respect to different variables and the implications of those choices on the limits of integration. There is also an acknowledgment of the need for clarity in differentiating the inverse hyperbolic function involved.

subzero0137
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Find the length of the positive arc of the curve y=cosh^{-1}(x) (for which y≥0) between x=1 and x=\sqrt{5}.
My attempt: x=cosh(y) → \frac{dx}{dy} = sinh(y) → (\frac{dx}{dy})^{2}=sinh^{2}(y), so ds=dy\sqrt{1+sinh^{2}(y)}, therefore the arc length is S=\int_{y=0}^{y=cosh^{-1}(\sqrt{5})} cosh(y) dy= 2. Is this right? Even if it is, is there another method of doing it (e.g. parametric equations)?
 
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No you have to integrate between 1 and sqrt(5).
 
dirk_mec1 said:
No you have to integrate between 1 and sqrt(5).

But those are the x limits. If I want to integrate with respect to dy, I need y limits. I could've used dy/dx instead of dx/dy, but I don't know how to differentiate y=cosh^{-1}(x).
 
subzero0137 said:
Find the length of the positive arc of the curve y=cosh^{-1}(x) (for which y≥0) between x=1 and x=\sqrt{5}.



My attempt: x=cosh(y) → \frac{dx}{dy} = sinh(y) → (\frac{dx}{dy})^{2}=sinh^{2}(y), so ds=dy\sqrt{1+sinh^{2}(y)}, therefore the arc length is S=\int_{y=0}^{y=cosh^{-1}(\sqrt{5})} cosh(y) dy= 2. Is this right? Even if it is, is there another method of doing it (e.g. parametric equations)?
Looks fine to me.
 

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