How to Convert Rectangular Equations to Polar Form?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around converting rectangular equations to polar form, as well as calculating arc lengths for given curves. The subject area includes polar coordinates, parametric equations, and calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to eliminate parameters and convert equations, while also calculating arc lengths. Some participants question the correctness of the original poster's equations and calculations, suggesting possible errors in setup and interpretation.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided feedback on the equations presented, indicating potential corrections and clarifications. There is an ongoing exploration of the methods used, particularly regarding the arc length calculation and the conversion to polar form.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing specific intervals and conditions for the problems, with some questioning the validity of the original poster's assumptions and results. The context includes a focus on ensuring that the mathematical expressions align with standard forms.

Punchlinegirl
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If someone could check my work and make sure I'm doing these problems right, I would really appreciate it.
1.Eliminate the parameter and obtain the standard form of the rectangular equation.
Circle: [tex]x= h + r cos \theta , y= k + r sin \theta[/tex]
[tex]<b>(x-h/r)^2 + (y-k/r)^2 = 1</b>[/tex]
2.Find the arc length of the given curve on the indicated interval.
[tex]x=t^2 +1, y=4t^3 + 3[/tex]
[tex]0 \leq t \leq -1[/tex]
[tex]S= \int \sqrt (dx/dt)^2 + (dy/dt)^2[/tex]
dx/dt= 2t, dy/dt= 12t^2
so i intregrated from -1 to 0, [tex]\int \sqrt 4t^2 +144t^2 dt[/tex]
using a u subsitution, I got [tex]1/432(4+144t^2)^(3/2)[/tex]
Plugging in -1 and 0 gave me -4.15, which can't be right since it's talking about arclength..
3.Convert the rectangular equation to polar.
[tex]x^2 + y^2 - 2ax = 0[/tex]
[tex]r^2 = 2ax[/tex]
[tex]r^2 / r cos \theta = 2a (r cos \theta)/ r cos \theta[/tex]
Solving for r gave me [tex]<b>r= 2a cos \theta</b>[/tex]
If these are wrong, any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
 
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can someone please help?
 
1. Your equation should be

[tex]\frac {(x-h)^2)}{r^2} + \frac {(y-k)^2}{r^2} = 1[/tex]

2. Check your inequality. I am guessing it should read [itex]0 \leq x \leq 1[/itex].
 
Question 2 looks like it gives you an elliptical integral so you will have to numerically approximate it. 3. r=2*a*cos(theta) looks good.
 

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