Geometric Meaning of Cylindrical & Spherical Mappings

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the geometric interpretations of specific mappings in cylindrical and spherical coordinates. The cylindrical mappings discussed are $(r, \theta, z) \rightarrow (r, \theta, -z)$, which represents symmetry with respect to the plane $z=0$, and $(r, \theta, z) \rightarrow (r, \theta + \pi, -z)$. In spherical coordinates, the mappings $(\rho, \theta, \phi) \rightarrow (\rho, \theta + \pi, \phi)$ and $(\rho, \theta, \phi) \rightarrow (\rho, \theta, \pi - \phi)$ are also analyzed. These transformations illustrate how points in space can be related through symmetry and reflection.

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mathmari
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Hey! :o

What is the geometric meaning of the following mappings, that are written in cylindrical coordinates?? (Wondering)

The mappings are: $$(r, \theta, z) \rightarrow(r, \theta , -z) \\ (r, \theta , z) \rightarrow (r, \theta +\pi , -z)$$

And what is the geometric meaning of the following mappings, that are written in spherical coordinates?? (Wondering)

The mappings are: $$(\rho , \theta , \phi) \rightarrow (\rho , \theta +\pi , \phi) \\ (\rho , \theta , \phi) \rightarrow (\rho , \theta , \pi-\phi)$$
 
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Hi mathmari,

For example, the first is a symmetry with respect to the plane $z=0$.

For the others, take a point in the space, $(x,y,z)$, where you know $x=rcos\theta, \ y=r\sin \theta, \ z=z$ (and the corresponding in spherical coordinates), calculate its image and try to relate both points.
 
I see... Thank you very much! (Smile)
 

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