Finding the Length of y = x^{3/2} from x = 0 to x = 4

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the length of the curve defined by the equation y = x^{3/2} over the interval from x = 0 to x = 4. Participants are examining the application of the arc length formula and the integration process involved.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the arc length formula and the substitution rule for integration. There are questions about the correctness of the initial calculations and the need to adjust limits of integration when using substitution.

Discussion Status

Multiple interpretations of the integration process are being explored, with some participants suggesting that initial answers may be incorrect. Guidance has been offered regarding the integration steps and the importance of changing limits when substituting variables.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a numerical factor that some participants are unsure about, as well as a reference to a helpful external resource for integration. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify the problem-solving approach without reaching a definitive solution.

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Homework Statement


Find the length of the curve. [tex]y = x^{3/2}[/tex] from x = 0 to x = 4.


Homework Equations


[tex]L = \int^{b}_{a} \sqrt{1 + (dy/dx)^{2}} dx[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]L = \int^{b}_{a} \sqrt{1 + (dy/dx)^{2}} dx[/tex]
[tex]L = \int^{4}_{0} \sqrt{1 + (3x^{1/2}/2)^{2}} dx[/tex]
.
.
.
.
I used substitution rule
.
.
.
[tex]L = 64/27[/tex]

Is this correct?

Thanks
 
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Precursor said:

Homework Statement


Find the length of the curve. [tex]y = x^{3/2}[/tex] from x = 0 to x = 4.


Homework Equations


[tex]L = \int^{b}_{a} \sqrt{1 + (dy/dx)^{2}} dx[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]L = \int^{b}_{a} \sqrt{1 + (dy/dx)^{2}} dx[/tex]
[tex]L = \int^{4}_{0} \sqrt{1 + (3x^{1/2}/2)^{2}} dx[/tex]
.
.
.
.
I used substitution rule
.
.
.
[tex]L = 64/27[/tex]

Is this correct?

Thanks


http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=integrate+sqrt[+1+++[+(3/2)+x^(1/2)+]^2+]+from+x=0+to+x=4
Its better to post all of your work.
 
Precursor said:
So my answer is wrong afterall?

By the way, thanks a lot for that website! If only I knew such a website existed before. :smile:

Yeah Its wrong.

You will face: [tex]\int_0^4 \sqrt{ 1 + \frac{9}{4}x } \;\ dx[/tex]
What did you do for it?
 
Actually I found [itex]c(7 \sqrt{7} - 1)[/itex],
where c is a numerical factor (I got 2/3) which I'm not sure of because I did the calculation sloppily.
So I suggest you show the rest of the calculation as well.

[edit] Too slow, you already have several replies. [/edit]
 
Ratio Test =) said:
Yeah Its wrong.

You will face: [tex]\int_0^4 \sqrt{ 1 + \frac{9}{4}x } \;\ dx[/tex]
What did you do for it?

That's exactly what I got, but when I used the substitution rule, to integrate, I did not change the limits of integration to in terms of u.
 
Precursor said:
That's exactly what I got, but when I used the substitution rule, to integrate, I did not change the limits of integration to in terms of u.

Ohhh.
BTW, Its a famous mistake. :)
 

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