How Do You Calculate the Volume of a Solid Revolved Around x = -1?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the volume of a solid formed by revolving a specific region in the first quadrant around the line x = -1. The region is bounded by the curve y = x², the x-axis, and the line x = 1. Participants explore different methods for solving this problem, including the Shell method and the Washer method, while addressing the challenges posed by the geometry of the situation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in finding the correct formula for integration due to the space between x = 0 and the axis x = -1.
  • Another participant suggests using the Shell method, detailing the process of dividing the region into small rectangles and calculating the volume of cylindrical shells.
  • A third participant questions whether the Washer method can be applied, given that the exercise is intended to be completed before the lesson on Shell revolution.
  • A later reply confirms that the Washer method is applicable and proposes solving the problem in two parts: first calculating the volume of a cylinder and then subtracting the volume of the region defined by the curve.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to the problem, with some favoring the Shell method and others advocating for the Washer method. There is no consensus on which method is preferable, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge posed by the empty space between the axis and the region being revolved, which complicates the integration process. The discussion also reflects a potential gap in knowledge regarding the Shell method, as one participant indicates that the exercise is meant to be completed prior to learning this technique.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students learning about volume calculations in calculus, particularly those exploring different methods for solids of revolution and facing similar challenges in their homework.

VyRianS
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Hi all. I've just hit a block in the following question:

[Find the volume of the solid...] "The region in the first quadrant bounded by the curve y = x^2, below by the x-axis, and on the right by the line x = 1, revolved around the axis x = -1."

I've tried nearly 2 hours figuring the question out but can't seem to find the correct fomula for integration due the empty space between x = 0 and the axis x = -1.

Any help will be appreciated.
 
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Divide the x-y curve in small rectangles of base dx and height x^2.

Now revolve each of theese rectangles around x=-1, obtaining a cylindrical shell of internal radius
\pi (1+x)^2 and external radius \pi (i + x + dx)^2.

The base area of this shell is

dA(x) = \pi (1+x+dx)^2 - \pi (1+x)^2 = 2\pi(1+x)dx

and the volume of the shell is dV(x) = x^2 dA(x)

Now integrate from x = 0 to x = 1.
 
I understand that the Shell method is easiest way to do this.

However, this exercise is supposed to be done before the lesson on Shell revolution.

Is is possible to use the Slice and Washer method to solve this?
 
Yes, it is. Do it as two separate problems. First do the problem of the volume you get rotating the region from x=-1 to the vertical line x= 1, with height 1. That. of course, is just the volume of the cylinder of radius 2 and height 1. Then do the problem of the volume of the region from x= -1 to x= sqrt(y) rotating around x= -1 again with y up to 1. Finally, subtract the second from the first (that is the same as the "washer" method).
 

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