Finding the volume of a solid revolution (shell method)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the volume of a solid revolution formed by rotating the area enclosed by the function f(x) = 9 - x² around the vertical line x = 7 using the shell method. The shell radius is determined to be (7 - x) and the shell height as (9 - x²), leading to the volume expression 2∏∫(7-x)(9-x²)dx. The correct interval for integration is established as [-3, 3], based on the area A defined by the function and the region y ≥ 0. Additionally, the disc method is discussed, with the outer and inner radii needing correction for accurate volume calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the shell method for volume calculation
  • Familiarity with definite integrals and their applications
  • Knowledge of the function f(x) = 9 - x² and its graph
  • Basic skills in sketching graphs to visualize areas and volumes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the shell method in detail, focusing on volume calculations around vertical lines
  • Learn about the disc method and its application in finding volumes of solids of revolution
  • Explore the concept of definite integrals and their limits in calculus
  • Practice sketching functions and their revolutions to enhance visualization skills
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in calculus, particularly those focusing on solid geometry, volume calculations, and methods of integration. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the shell and disc methods in solid revolution problems.

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Let f(x)=9-x^2. Let A be the area enclosed by the graph y=f(x) and the region y>=0.
Suppose A is rotated around the vertical line x=7 to form a solid revolution S.
So, using the shell method, I was able to find the indefinite integral used.
I found the shell radius to be (7-x) and the shell height to be (9-x^2)
Therefore, the volume is 2∏∫(7-x)(9-x^2)dx = 2∏∫(63-9x-7x^2+x^3)Δx
However, I am just unsure for what the interval should be. For whether it should be [-3,3] or [0,7]. So, which one is it?
I also tried using the disc method, with π ∫ [7² - (9 - y)] dy from 0 to 9 and got the answer 801∏/2. Is that right?
Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
 
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To find your limits, think about the description of the area A. It is the area enclosed by the function and the region y >= 0. Picture this area on a graph (make a sketch if it helps), and it should be pretty clear that the integral should go from x=-3 to x=3. Using the other method, your formulas for your radii aren't quite right. Your outer radius should be 7+\sqrt{9-y} and your inner radius should be 7-\sqrt{9-y}. Again, picture the situation on a graph (for this one, it might be especially helpful to actually draw a quick sketch) and you should see why you get that.
 

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