Finding Volume and Surface Area of a Banana Using Calculus

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the volume and surface area of a banana using calculus, specifically through the method of volumes of revolution. The actual measured volume of the banana is 160 cm³, determined via water displacement. Participants attempted to find the integral of the difference between two traced lines representing the banana's cross-section but encountered difficulties leading to an inflated volume estimate of over 286 cubic units. The next phase involves determining the surface area, which has not yet been addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Elementary calculus concepts including derivatives, limits, and integrals
  • Understanding of volumes of revolution in calculus
  • Familiarity with graphing tools such as Desmos
  • Basic measurement techniques, specifically water displacement method
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply the integral calculus method for volumes of revolution
  • Research techniques for calculating surface area using parametric equations
  • Explore the use of numerical integration methods for complex shapes
  • Investigate the relationship between cross-sectional area and volume in calculus
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those interested in practical applications of integrals and volumes of revolution, as well as educators seeking real-world examples for teaching these concepts.

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Homework Statement


We are given a Banana, and asked to find the volume and surface area of the function, using calculus. So far, we have learned elementary calculus (derivatives, limits, and integrals) as well as volumes of revolutions. We traced the banana on graph paper, plotted points on the line, and created equations for the cross section of the banana. Here is the graph on desmos: https://www.desmos.com/calculator/jfertkhwnv
We measured the actual volume of the banana, using a water displacement method. The actual volume of the banana is 160cm^3

Homework Equations


We are allowed to use any credible resource for equations online.

The Attempt at a Solution


So far, what we have tried is to find the integral between the two lines we traces, (the integral from one end to the other end of the banana, of f(x)-g(x).)(couldn't figure out how to put integral sign in thing.) We then multiplied that value by 1/2, to find the approximate radius. then the calculated radius was plugged into pi*r^2 equation, and we got a value that was incredibly high. Perhaps our equations were incorrect, but at this point, we do not know. We also need to find a method to find the surface area of the banana, however we have not started that phase of the project.
 
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For what it's worth, using your equations and assuming circular cross section for the banana I get a volume of a bit over ##286## cubic units.
 

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