Integral with infinitesimal under root

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the computation of the integral $$\int f(x,y) \sqrt{dx^2+dy^2}$$. Participants explore the implications of the notation and the validity of manipulating the integral under the square root, considering both theoretical and practical aspects of the expression.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a series of manipulations involving the integral and the square root, questioning the correctness of passing the integral under the square root.
  • Another participant requests clarification on the meaning of the integral and its notation, indicating a need for context or source.
  • A different participant suggests that the notation may be valid if ##x## and ##y## can be parameterized, providing an interpretation involving parameterization and limits.
  • One participant challenges the initial manipulation, referencing the integral property that suggests the first step may not hold true.
  • Several participants mention the possibility of converting the integral to polar coordinates, noting that this could simplify the expression.
  • There is a distinction made regarding whether the integral represents a surface or line integral, which may affect the approach taken.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the validity of manipulating the integral under the square root, with some supporting the idea of parameterization while others challenge the approach. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correctness of the initial manipulation and the interpretation of the integral.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight potential limitations in understanding the notation and the assumptions required for the manipulations discussed. The distinction between surface and line integrals is also noted as a relevant factor in the discussion.

Jhenrique
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I want compute the following integral:

$$\\ \int f(x,y) \sqrt{dx^2+dy^2}$$
Is correct this pass-by-pass:
$$\\ \sqrt{\left( \int f(x,y) \right)^2} \sqrt{dx^2+dy^2} = \sqrt{\left( \int f(x,y) \right)^2 (dx^2+dy^2)} = \sqrt{\left( \int f(x,y) \right)^2 dx^2 + \left( \int f(x,y) \right)^2 dy^2} = \sqrt{\left( \int f(x,y) dx \right)^2 + \left( \int f(x,y) dy\right)^2}$$
?
 
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Jhenrique said:
I want compute the following integral:

$$\\ \int f(x,y) \sqrt{dx^2+dy^2}$$

Please define what this means. Or at least, please tell us where you saw this.
 
The only time that I have ever seen notation like this is when ##x## and ##y## can be parameterized. Then This is interpreted as
##\displaystyle\int f(x,y)\sqrt{\left(\frac{dx}{dt}\right)^2dt^2+\left(\frac{dy}{dt}\right)^2dt^2}=\int f(x,y)\sqrt{x'(t)^2+y'(t)^2}dt##
which may be hard to compute but should make sense. Passing the integral under the square root does not make sense. An integral is a limit of sums which can't be passed under the square root.

The integral property ##\left|\int fdx\right|\leq\int\left|\ fdx\right|## should convince you that your first step is not guaranteed to work.
 
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Converting to polar coordinates is an option, that ugly square-root will become ##dr##.
 
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verty said:
Converting to polar coordinates is an option, that ugly square-root will become ##dr##.

That's true too. It depends on whether this is a surface or line integral.
 
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