Graphing in spherical coordinates

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on graphing the equation ρ = 1 + cos(∅) in spherical coordinates. The transformation to Cartesian coordinates using the equations x = ρ * sin(∅) * cos(θ), y = ρ * sin(∅) * sin(θ), and z = ρ * cos(∅) is highlighted, but it is noted that the surface is a revolution around the z-axis. The key insight is that the cross-section in the yz plane resembles the polar coordinate graph of r = 1 + cos(θ), which can be visualized by rotating this curve around the z-axis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical coordinates and their equations
  • Familiarity with polar coordinates and their graphical representation
  • Knowledge of triple integrals and their applications
  • Basic skills in converting between spherical and Cartesian coordinates
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the graph of polar coordinates, specifically r = 1 + cos(θ)
  • Learn about surfaces of revolution and their properties
  • Practice converting between spherical and Cartesian coordinates with various equations
  • Explore triple integrals and their geometric interpretations in three-dimensional space
USEFUL FOR

Students studying multivariable calculus, particularly those learning about spherical coordinates and graphing three-dimensional surfaces. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to visualize complex mathematical concepts.

XcKyle93
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Homework Statement



The question involves a triple integral, but I can figure that out once I know what this looks like visually. It is the graph of ρ = 1 + cos(∅)
How exactly would I graph this?

Homework Equations



x = ρ * sin(∅) * cos(θ)
y = [itex]\rho[/itex] * sin(∅) * sin(θ)
z = ρ * cos(∅)


The Attempt at a Solution



I don't really know where to start. I tried converting to Cartesian because it wasn't something that was easy to visualize for me in spherical, but that was a mess. Would it be a torus? I only vaguely know what that is. I apologize, we just learned this stuff today! I want to make sure that I am solid on it.
 
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Well, as you have discovered, you aren't going to get a nice simple xyz equation from which you will recognize the graph. One thing that you know for sure is that since there is no [itex]\theta[/itex] in the equation it is a surface of revolution around the z axis. So its cross section in, for example, the yz plane would tell you the shape.

Think about what the polar coordinate graph of r = 1 + cos(θ) would look like. Do you know how you would graph that curve? Do you know what kind of curve it is?

The reason I am asking you that is, when you look at the trace of your surface in the yz plane the [itex]\rho,\phi[/itex] pair look just like polar coordinates off the z axis. So if you can figure out the shape of the polar curve, just rotate it up on the z axis and revolve it to get your surface. Come back if you have more questions.
 

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