Finding area with integration and arbitrary line

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the value of c that divides the area between the curves y = x² and y = 4 into two equal regions using integration. The integral equations set up are ∫₀ᶜ √y dy = ∫ᶜ⁴ √y dy. The symmetry of the problem allows for consideration of only the first quadrant, simplifying the calculations. The participant initially encountered an issue where c appeared to vanish from the equations, indicating a need for careful manipulation of the integrals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of definite integrals
  • Familiarity with the concept of area between curves
  • Knowledge of the properties of symmetry in calculus
  • Basic skills in algebraic manipulation of equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of finding areas between curves using integration
  • Learn about the properties of definite integrals and their applications
  • Explore the concept of symmetry in calculus and its implications for integration
  • Practice solving similar problems involving integration and bounded regions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on integration techniques and area calculations, as well as educators looking for examples of applying integration to find areas between curves.

zeion
Messages
455
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



Sketch the region bounded by y = x^2 and y = 4. This region is divided into two sub regions of equal area by a line y = c. Find c.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I try to integrate from 0 to a point c and make it equate to from integrating c to 4 like this:

<br /> <br /> \int_{0}^{c} [(\sqrt{y})-(-\sqrt{y})]dy = \int_{c}^{4} [(\sqrt{y})-(-\sqrt{y})]dy<br /> <br />

But after I simplify the c disappears.. is this wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Because of the symmetry of this problem, it suffices to look at the region in the first quadrant only.

\int_{0}^{c} \sqrt{y}~dy = \int_{c}^{4} \sqrt{y}~dy
Try working with this equation - c doesn't disappear.
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
2K