How to Calculate Volume Using Triple Integrals for a Sphere and Planes?

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To calculate the volume of the solid enclosed by the sphere x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = 4a^2 and the planes z = 0 and z = a using triple integrals, it's essential to convert to spherical coordinates, including the Jacobian. The radius of the sphere varies due to the plane z = a, necessitating a split in the integral. The angle ρ is determined as ρ = a sec(φ) for φ < π/3, where the upper boundary is the plane z = a. The integration limits for ρ should range from 0 to 2a, with φ between π/2 and π/3. The discussion highlights the complexity of integrating through the conical section formed by the planes and sphere.
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Homework Statement


Use a triple integral to calculate the volume of the solid enclosed by the sphere
x^2 + y^2 + z^2=4a^2 and the planes z=0 and z=a


Homework Equations


Transform to spherical coordinates (including the Jacobian)


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm stuck, as the radius of the sphere is not constant through the area of integration due to the plane z=a. It looks like I should split this integral up, but I'm just not sure on how to do it. It looks like the angle rho is (pi)/3 when the radius of the sphere(2a, from the origin) hits the z=a plane. Please help!
 
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Yes, for \phi&lt; \pi/3 the upper boundary is the z= a plane. So, going up from the origin to z= a, then over to the angle \phi, you have a right triangle with angle \phi and near side of length a. \rho is the length of the hypotenuse of that right triangle. \cos(\phi)= a/\rho so
\rho= \frac{a}{\cos(\phi)}= a \sec(\phi).
 
HallsofIvy said:
Yes, for \phi&lt; \pi/3 the upper boundary is the z= a plane. So, going up from the origin to z= a, then over to the angle \phi, you have a right triangle with angle \phi and near side of length a. \rho is the length of the hypotenuse of that right triangle. \cos(\phi)= a/\rho so
\rho= \frac{a}{\cos(\phi)}= a \sec(\phi).
Oh good so I was right, thanks. So should I integrate with rho being between 0 and 2a, with phi being between pi/2 and pi/3, and then...well I get stuck there. I've got that little cone bit in the middle to go and I don't know how to get him (or her). Sorry I'm just not getting this one
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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