Finding volume using integrals

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the volume of a solid generated by revolving a region bounded by the curve y = sqrt(16 - x^2) and the line y = 0 about the x-axis. The subject area is calculus, specifically integral calculus and volume of solids of revolution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the setup of the integral for calculating volume, with one participant presenting their initial solution and others questioning the limits of integration and symmetry of the function. There is also a mention of recognizing the geometric interpretation of the solid formed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's approach. There is acknowledgment of the need to adjust the limits of integration to account for symmetry, and a geometric perspective is introduced to validate the volume calculation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the function is symmetric about the y-axis, which affects the limits of integration and the overall volume calculation. There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct interpretation of the problem setup.

donjt81
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So here is the question

find the volume of the solid generated by revolving the region bounded by the curve y = sqrt(16 - x^2) and the line y = 0 about the x axis.

this is how I solved it

[tex]\int_{0}^{4} \Pi (16 - y^{2}) \; dy[/tex]
[tex]\Pi \int_{0}^{4} (16 - y^{2}) \; dy[/tex]

pi(16*y - y^3/3) from 0 to 4
pi(16*4 - 64/3 - 0)

so the answer I got is (128 pi)/3

is this correct.
 
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Unless I'm missing something, you should multiply your whole integral with 2, since your function is defined from -4 to 4 and symmetric.
 
Well, why haven't you used -4 as your lower limit?
Note that this would double the volume of your object.
 
Another check is to recognize that [itex]y= \sqrt{16- x^2}[/itex] is the upper half of a circle and so the figure formed is a sphere of radius 4. Its volume is [itex](4/3)\pi (4)^3[/itex], twice your answer.
 
thanks guys i completely missed that. you are right it should be -4 to 4... other than that does everything else look ok.
 

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