Integrating a Torus' Volume around the Y-axis Using Washer Method

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the volume of a torus when revolved around the y-axis using the washer method. Participants explore the integration process required to compute the volume, specifically addressing the integral involving the square root of (1 - y²).

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem of integrating (1 - y²)^(1/2) dy from 1 to 0, multiplied by a constant 16π, while expressing difficulty in performing the integration.
  • Another participant suggests that the integral is trivial, indicating that the integral of 1 is y and the integral of y² is y³/3, implying a straightforward solution.
  • A third participant points out that the presence of the square root complicates the separation of terms in the integral.
  • A later reply proposes using a trigonometric substitution (y = sin(x)) to simplify the integral, detailing the transformation and subsequent steps to evaluate the integral.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the complexity of the integral, with some suggesting it is straightforward while others highlight the challenges posed by the square root. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the integration method and the overall approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved mathematical steps related to the integration process, particularly concerning the handling of the square root and the application of trigonometric substitution. The discussion does not clarify the assumptions or definitions that may affect the integration.

artikk
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I tried to find the volume of a torus revolved around the y-axis using the washer method. The equation for the circle is (x-2)^2 +y^2=1.
I need to integrate (1-y^2)^1/2 dy from 1 to 0 multiplied by a constant 16pi. The constant is not really important but I can't seem to integrate the integrand. I am aware that there's a formula for finding a vol. of a torus, as well.
 
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Unless you misstated the problem, it is trivial. The integral of 1 is y and the integral of y2 is y3/3. Just put them together.
 
Yes, but in this case, the (1-y^2) are under the square root, you can't separate the two terms.
 
\int_0^1 \sqrt (1-y^{2}) dy
a trig substitution would work here, like y=sinx, so dy=cos(x)dx, when y=0, x=0, when y=1,x=\frac{\pi}{2}

\int_0^\frac{\pi}{2} \sqrt(1-sin^{2}x )cosxdx now remember

1-sin^{2}(x)=cos^{2}(x) so

\int_0^\frac{\pi}{2} cos^{2}(x) dx=\int_0^\frac{\pi}{2} \frac{1+cos(2x)}{2} dx and you are almost done!
 
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