Just need a check Finding total charge when given distribution

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the total charge within a sphere of radius R, given a charge density function ρ(r)=ρ0 cos(θ/3) sin(φ/2). The original poster seeks confirmation of their solution, which is expressed in terms of R and ρ0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration process required to find the total charge, with specific focus on the integration of the charge density function. There are questions about potential errors in integration by parts and the correctness of the final result.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants revisiting their calculations and sharing insights. One participant has identified a mistake in their integration, leading to a revised answer. There is also mention of a trigonometric identity that could simplify the integration process, although it has not been fully explored by all participants.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the depth of exploration into alternative methods or identities. There is an emphasis on ensuring understanding rather than simply arriving at a correct answer.

xxbigelxx
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Homework Statement



We have a sphere (radius R) where charge is placed inside of it, ρ(r)=ρ0 cos(θ/3) sin(φ/2). Find the total charge. Your answer will be in terms of R and p0.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




I think I did it correctly, but I would just like to make sure I did (and thus ensure my understanding). My answer is marked by the star, and everything below it is just my integration work that was required by the problem.
 

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xxbigelxx said:

Homework Statement



We have a sphere (radius R) where charge is placed inside of it, ρ(r)=ρ0 cos(θ/3) sin(φ/2). Find the total charge. Your answer will be in terms of R and p0.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




I think I did it correctly, but I would just like to make sure I did (and thus ensure my understanding). My answer is marked by the star, and everything below it is just my integration work that was required by the problem.

I think you'll want to double check your integration of

[tex]\int_0^{\pi}\cos\left(\frac{\theta}{3}\right)\sin\theta d\theta[/tex]
 
Hmm I tried to go over it again and I got the same result. Was it somewhere on the first integration by parts where I messed up? Thanks
 
Ohhh I was double checking the wrong part. I ended up making a mistake at the very bottom. It changed my result from that integration to 27/16 and my final answer is now...

(Rho)(R^3)(9/4) C

I hope this should be correct now...
 
xxbigelxx said:
Ohhh I was double checking the wrong part. I ended up making a mistake at the very bottom. It changed my result from that integration to 27/16 and my final answer is now...

(Rho)(R^3)(9/4) C

I hope this should be correct now...

Looks good to me.

For future reference, you could have avoided IBP by using a trig identity:

[tex]\sin\theta\cos\left(\frac{\theta}{3}\right)=\frac{\sin\left(\frac{4\theta}{3}\right)+\sin\left(\frac{2\theta}{3}\right)}{2}[/tex]
 
Ohh ok thanks. I don't even think I have ever come across that identity before.
 
xxbigelxx said:
Ohh ok thanks. I don't even think I have ever come across that identity before.

Its just an application of the identity

[tex]\sin\theta\cos\left(\phi\right)=\frac{ \sin\left(\theta+\phi)+\sin\left(\theta-\phi\right)}{2}[/tex]
 
Oh ok thanks a lot.
 

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