Line Integral of a parametric curve

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating a line integral over a parametric curve defined by the equation x = y³, specifically from the points (-1, -1) to (1, 1). The integral in question is ∫_C e^x dx, with participants exploring the implications of integrating over arc length versus other methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss different parametrizations of the curve and the implications of integrating with respect to arc length versus x. One participant attempts to parametrize the curve using y = t and x = t³, while others question the correctness of the integral setup and suggest alternative methods of integration.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the correct form of the integral and exploring different approaches to the problem. There is a recognition of the need to clarify the integration method, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of parametrizing the curve correctly and integrating over arc length, as well as the potential confusion arising from the original integral setup. There is also mention of the need for accurate problem statements in the discussion.

chrisy2012
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Homework Statement


Evaluate the line integral over the curve C
[tex]\int_{C}^{}e^xdx[/tex]
where C is the arc of the curve
[tex]x=y^3[/tex]
from (-1,-1) to (1,1)

Homework Equations


[tex]\int_{C}^{}f(x,y)ds=\int_{a}^{b}f(x(t),y(t))\sqrt((\frac{dx}{dt})^2+(\frac{dy}{dt})^2)dt[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried parametrizing the curve to y=t and x=t^3
therefore dy/dt = 1 and dx/dt = 3t^2
plug this back into the formula, we get
∫ from -1 to 1 (e^t^3)sqrt(3t^2+1)dt
but this is an insolvable integral, anything I did wrong or is there another way?
 
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Your line integral is obviously wrong. You might have typed it incorrectly. It should be:
[tex]\int_{C}^{}e^xds[/tex]
[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{1}{3y}[/tex]
[tex]\int_{C}^{}f(x,y)ds=\int_{x=a}^{x=b}f(x,y)\sqrt {1+(\frac{dy}{dx})^2}\,.dx[/tex]
Afterwards, use the substitution [itex]\frac{1}{3x^{1/3}}=\tan \theta[/itex] and evaluate your line integral.
 
Last edited:
Keep in mind there are three basic ways of integrating over a curve (line integral), you can integrate over the arc-length (ds), but also over the shadow of the curve along the x and y-axis (by dx or dy). Now you wrote it as dx, so that's just a regular integral:

[tex]\int_C f(x,y)dx=\int_C f(x,y(x))dx=\int_{-1}^1 e^x dx[/tex]

If it were ds, then you'd need to use the formula you posted.
 
But I am suppose to integrate over the arclength(ds). I'm suppose to parametrize the curve with respect to t so that the curve imoves along 1 unit of length per unit of time. That's how I got the bounds for the integral
 
Post the entire question correctly.
 
The entire question is posted correctly.
 
chrisy2012 said:
The entire question is posted correctly.

chrisy2012 said:

Homework Statement


Evaluate the line integral over the curve C
[tex]\int_{C}^{}e^xdx[/tex]
where C is the arc of the curve
[tex]x=y^3[/tex]
from (-1,-1) to (1,1)

In that case, you won't have any use for the relevant equations that you've posted. :smile:
 

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