Moment of Inertia of Thin Plate: x^2+4y^2=4

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the moment of inertia of a thin plate with constant density that is defined within the first quadrant by the curve x² + 4y² = 4. The original poster seeks to calculate the moment of inertia about the line x = -3 and is exploring integration techniques related to this problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to set up the integral for the moment of inertia but questions the complexity of the integration process, particularly regarding the expansion of (x + 3)². Other participants inquire about the derivation of the factor of 1/2 in the expression for y(x) and point out inconsistencies in the original post regarding the equations used.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants clarifying the setup of the problem and addressing potential errors in the equations presented. There is a focus on understanding the correct formulation of y(x) and the implications of the curve's equation on the integration process.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating conflicting information regarding the equations used to describe the curve and the relationship between x and y. The original poster's reference to different forms of the equation has led to confusion that is being addressed in the discussion.

Nyasha
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Consider a thin plate of constant density which occupies the region in the first quadrant inside the curve:

x^2+4y^2=4


Find moment of inertia about line x=-3


Attempt to solution:


y=\frac{\sqrt{4-x^2}}{2}

I(x=-3)=\frac{1\rho}{2}\int_0^2(x+3)^2\sqrt{4-x^2}


\text{Is there any easier way of integrating this thing without having to expand} (x+3)^2 \text{and then multiply it with}\sqrt{4-x^2}
 

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In your solution for y(x), where did the 1/2 come from?

I don't see any options except to do it piece by piece.
 
Dr.D said:
In your solution for y(x), where did the 1/2 come from?

I don't see any options except to do it piece by piece.


y=\sqrt{\frac{4-x^2}{4}}
 
There is a conflict in your posted information. On the figure, it agrees with what you have used
y(x) = (1/2) * sqrt(4-x^2)
I see that now.
In your original post, you also wrote
LaTeX Code: x^2+y^2=4
which leads to
y(x) = sqrt(4-x^2)
That is why I asked the question.
 
Dr.D said:
There is a conflict in your posted information. On the figure, it agrees with what you have used
y(x) = (1/2) * sqrt(4-x^2)
In your original post, you also wrote
LaTeX Code: x^2+y^2=4
which leads to
y(x) = sqrt(4-x^2)
That is why I asked the question.

Thanks for pointing out that mistake :smile:
 

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