I'm struggling to compute arc length (multivariable calculus)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves computing the arc length of a curve defined by the parametric equations (t) = (1; 3t^2; t^3) over the interval from 0 to 1, within the context of multivariable calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the arc length using the formula for arc length and expresses confusion about the integration process, particularly when applying integration by parts. Some participants suggest considering integration by substitution and question the relationship between the factor t and the derivative of t^2 + 4.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods for integration. The original poster has expressed a desire to work through the problem independently but is seeking hints to guide their approach. There is no explicit consensus yet on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of integration techniques and the specifics of the arc length formula, indicating a potential gap in understanding the application of these methods in this context.

Physics_Is_Fun
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Homework Statement


Find the arc length of the curve
(t) = (1; 3t2; t3) over the interval 0  t  1.

Homework Equations


L=sqrt(f'(t)^2+g'(t)^2+...+n'(t)^2) (integrated from a to b)
int(udv)=uv-int(vdu)


The Attempt at a Solution


Seems like it should be fairly straightforward-- the derivative vector ends up being (0, 6t, 3t^2)
1.) L=int[sqrt(0^2+(6t)^2+(3t^2)^2)] (over 0 to 1)
2.) L=int[sqrt(36t^2+9t^4)] (from 0 to 1)
3.) L=3int[t*sqrt(t^2+4)] (from 0 to 1)
4.) From here, I wanted to solve using integration by parts. However, that seemed to only result in a more complicated integral no matter whether I set t as u or as dv.

Can anyone give me a hint? I'd like to work it out on my own, but an idea as to which method to use would be much appreciated.
Thanks so much to anyone who takes the time to respond to this. :)
 
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Physics_Is_Fun said:

Homework Statement


Find the arc length of the curve
(t) = (1; 3t2; t3) over the interval 0  t  1.

Homework Equations


L=sqrt(f'(t)^2+g'(t)^2+...+n'(t)^2) (integrated from a to b)
int(udv)=uv-int(vdu)


The Attempt at a Solution


Seems like it should be fairly straightforward-- the derivative vector ends up being (0, 6t, 3t^2)
1.) L=int[sqrt(0^2+(6t)^2+(3t^2)^2)] (over 0 to 1)
2.) L=int[sqrt(36t^2+9t^4)] (from 0 to 1)
3.) L=3int[t*sqrt(t^2+4)] (from 0 to 1)
4.) From here, I wanted to solve using integration by parts. However, that seemed to only result in a more complicated integral no matter whether I set t as u or as dv.

Can anyone give me a hint? I'd like to work it out on my own, but an idea as to which method to use would be much appreciated.
Thanks so much to anyone who takes the time to respond to this. :)

Us integration by substitution. Is not the factor t connected to the derivative of t2+4?

ehild
 
Thank you!
 
Can't believe I missed that...
 

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