Finding Polar Equation for hyperbola with Graph xy=16

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding a polar equation for the graph defined by the equation xy=16, which is identified as a hyperbola.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using the relationships x = rcosθ and y = rsinθ to convert the Cartesian equation into polar form. There are questions about how r and θ are related in this context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to derive the polar equation and questioning the relationships involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding substituting the polar expressions into the original equation.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be uncertainty regarding the conversion process and the nature of the relationship between r and θ in the context of the hyperbola.

Magnawolf
Messages
25
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Find a polar equation with the graph as xy=16


Homework Equations



r = ed/(1+- cos\theta)? I'm not really sure at all.

The Attempt at a Solution



I also tried using x = rcos\theta and y = r sin\theta but I can't get anything. I know it's a hyperbola.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Magnawolf said:

Homework Statement



Find a polar equation with the graph as xy=16



The Attempt at a Solution



I also tried using x = rcos\theta and y = r sin\theta but I can't get anything. I know it's a hyperbola.

It is all right. How are r and θ related then?

ehild
 
Inversely? I'm not sure!
 
Magnawolf said:
Inversely? I'm not sure!

No, why do you think so?

Just plug in x=rcosθ and y=rsinθ into the original equation xy=16.

ehild
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K