Integration/Double Integrals Advice Required

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of the function f(x, y) = Sqrt(x^2 + y^2) over a specified region in the x-y plane, which is bounded by two circles in the upper half-plane. Participants explore different methods for setting up the double integral, including the use of polar coordinates and rectangular coordinates.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant sketches the region and proposes limits for x and y, questioning their correctness.
  • Another participant suggests that using polar coordinates would simplify the integration due to the circular nature of the region.
  • A participant comments on the redundancy of posting the same problem multiple times.
  • There is a suggestion to use polar coordinates with the differential area element ds = r dr d(theta), while also providing rectangular limits for integration.
  • One participant argues that if rectangular coordinates are used, the region must be split into three parts due to the inner circle's influence on the limits.
  • A later reply indicates that the previous result could be multiplied by 2 to find the answer, implying a potential simplification in the approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the best method to approach the integral, with some advocating for polar coordinates while others discuss the complexities of using rectangular coordinates. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for careful consideration of the integration limits, especially when using rectangular coordinates, and the implications of the inner circle on these limits. There is also a mention of the potential for simplification through symmetry.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals interested in techniques for evaluating double integrals, particularly in polar and rectangular coordinates, may find this discussion beneficial.

Nima
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Hey, my Q is:

"Integrate f(x, y) = Sqrt(x^2 + y^2) over the region in the x-y plane bounded by the circles r = 1 and r = 4 in the upper half-plane".

Well, I firstly sketched out the region I get as my area in the x-y plane. I deduced that the ranges for x and y are:

0 <= x <= 4
Sqrt[1 - x^2] <= y <= Sqrt[16 - x^2]

1.) Is this right?
2.) How do I then calculate the integral of f(x, y) over this region? I know I'm doing a double integral but I don't see how I can separate my variables...

Thanks
 
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That integral is screaming polar coordinates! f(x,y)=r and the region is circular. It'll be really easy in polar coordinates.
 
There is no need to post every problem twice...
 
Use the polar coordinates where ds=r dr d(theta) or if you want to use rectangular use these limits

x 1 -> 4
y sqrt(1-x^2) -> sqrt(16-x^2)
 
If he wanted to use rectangular, he'd need to split it into 3 parts because when |x|>1, there is no inner circle anymore. So, as x goes from -4 => 1, 0 < y < sqrt(16-x^2), as x goes from -1 => 1, sqrt(1-x^2) < y < sqrt(16-x^2), and as x goes from 1 => 4, 0 < y < sqrt(16-x^2) again. Or he could do the whole half-disk of radius 4 and subtract the half-disc of radius one from it.
 
yes you are right, but i just ment that he could understand that in this example we can multiply my previous result with 2 to get the answer.
 

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