Integrating sqrt(x^2+y^2) over Circle (x-1)^2+y^2<=1 using Polar Coordinates

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the integral of the function sqrt(x^2+y^2) over the specified circle defined by the inequality (x-1)^2+y^2<=1, utilizing polar coordinates.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of polar coordinates, questioning the limits of integration for both rho and theta. There is also a consideration of the geometric interpretation of the integral and its implications for the result.

Discussion Status

Some participants have reached a conclusion that the integral evaluates to zero, while others are exploring the reasoning behind this outcome and questioning the limits of integration. There is an ongoing examination of the assumptions made regarding the integration bounds.

Contextual Notes

There is a potential discrepancy in the limits of theta, with one participant suggesting it may range from -π/2 to π/2 instead of 0 to 2π. This indicates a need for clarification on the setup of the problem.

eoghan
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Hi there!
I have to calculate the integral of the function sqrt(x^2+y^2) over the circle (x-1)^2+y^2<=1

I use polar coordinates: rho goes from 0 to 2cos(theta) and theta goes from 0 to 2pi.
My result is that the integral is 0... is it right?
 
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Yea I did it and got 0 because you end up integrating [itex]\cos(\theta)^3[/itex] at the end, which is 0.
 
eohgan, if you think about what the geometric meaning of the integral is, it should be clear as to why your answer is zero.
 
eoghan said:
Hi there!
I have to calculate the integral of the function sqrt(x^2+y^2) over the circle (x-1)^2+y^2<=1

I use polar coordinates: rho goes from 0 to 2cos(theta) and theta goes from 0 to 2pi.
My result is that the integral is 0... is it right?

Hi eoghan! :smile:

erm … doesn't theta go from -π/2 to π/2? :redface:
 

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