How can I find the area inside two polar curves?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the area enclosed by two polar curves: r = sin(θ) and r = cos(θ). Participants are exploring the geometric interpretation of these curves and the appropriate setup for calculating the area between them.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the symmetry of the curves and suggest integrating over specific intervals. There are questions about the correctness of the proposed integration limits and concerns about overestimating the area.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing different perspectives on the integration limits and the area calculation. Some guidance has been offered regarding symmetry and integration, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is some confusion regarding the integration limits and the interpretation of the area covered by the curves. Participants are also considering the implications of symmetry in their calculations.

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I need to find the area that's inside both of the following curves:

[tex]r = \sin\theta[/tex]

[tex]r = \cos\theta[/tex]

I know that I should have to subtract the area of the one curve from the other and I know the area formula for polar coordinates, but I just can't see how to set this one up any help or hints would be appreciated.
 
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It's just two circles. the sin one is centered on the y-axis and the cos one is centered on the x axis. Sketch them and you will see what you have to do. Because of symmetry, you only need to integrate sin(t) from t=0 to t=pi/4 and multiply that integral by 2. Integrating cos(t) from t=pi/4 to t=pi/2 and then multiplying that integral by 2 will give you the same exact result.
 
Shouldn't the area of sin t from 0 to pi/4 cover everything from the curve to the y axis. If you multiply that by 2 then you will end up with more area than what's in the loop won't you? I'm sorry I must be really confused
 
No, that's 0 to pi/2. pi/4 is 1/8th of a circle
 
these circles complete one rotation every pi degrees remember. So Pi/4 would be at the top of the circle with the cos and at the side of the sine circle.
 
Dude, why are you arguing with me? I said that you integrate sin(t) from 0 to pi/4. If you don't think my answer is right, then don't use it.
 
Im sorry, I think my explanation of this problem was bad I'm going to try to explain it again in another thread so I you still feel like halping me please go there.
 

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