Finding the Area Enclosed by a Polar Curve

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To find the area enclosed by the polar curve r = 2 e^(0.9θ) from θ = 0 to θ = 1/8, the correct approach involves integrating the area formula for polar coordinates. The integration boundaries are confirmed as a = 0 and b = 1/8. The area can be calculated using the integral (1/2) * (r^2) dθ, leading to the setup Integral[0->1/8] (1/2 * (2 e^(0.9θ))^2) dθ. It's important to remember to include the Jacobian factor when performing integrals in polar coordinates. The discussion clarifies the focus on area rather than arclength, ensuring the correct formula is applied.
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Homework Statement



Find the area enclosed by the polar curve
r = 2 e^(0.9theta)

on the interval 0 <= theta <= 1/8
and the straight line segment between its ends.

Homework Equations



arclength =
eq0006MP.gif


The Attempt at a Solution



I need help finding the boundaries for this problem. Is it from 0 to pi? I'm not sure how exactly would I go about finding the limits of integration(boundaries) since it starts from the origin and ends at the x-axis.

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/7910/whatareloi.jpg
 

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The integration boundaries for theta are given.

[Hint: first find the area between the curve and the x-axis, then find the area under the straight line segment between its ends and subtract appropriately.]
 
CompuChip said:
The integration boundaries for theta are given.

[Hint: first find the area between the curve and the x-axis, then find the area under the straight line segment between its ends and subtract appropriately.]

are you talking about the inequality from 0 to 1/8? so my boundaries of int. are a=0, b=1/8?
 
Yes.
Note that the dtheta is outside the square root and don't forget the Jacobian factor when doing an integral in polar coordinates.
 
CompuChip said:
Yes.
Note that the dtheta is outside the square root and don't forget the Jacobian factor when doing an integral in polar coordinates.

integrating from 0 to 1/8 is giving me .355, which isn't right =-\
 
Why did you include an arclength formula in your OP when the question asks for area?
 
i thought it meant arclength, but i guess it is area
so it should be int [a->b] of (1/2(r)^2)dthetabut I still don't know how to set up this problem correctly
 
I figured it out, it's Integral[0->1/8] (1/2*(2 e^(0.9theta))^2)dTheta

thanks everyone
 
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