[Not Homework] Polar Equation Problem Involved Tangents

  • Thread starter Thread starter suporia
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Homework Polar
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around solving a polar equation problem involving tangents, specifically using the integral formula \(\int_{a}^{b} \sqrt { (\frac{dr}{dθ})^2 + r^2 }\, dθ\). Participants highlight the symmetry of the figure, noting that if one point is at (r,θ), the corresponding point is at (r,θ+π/2). This insight aids in understanding the geometric relationships within the problem, facilitating the derivation of the necessary functions for solving the equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polar coordinates and their representation
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration techniques
  • Knowledge of derivatives and their applications in polar equations
  • Experience with geometric interpretations of mathematical problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of polar equations and their tangent lines
  • Learn advanced integration techniques for polar coordinates
  • Explore symmetry in polar graphs and its implications
  • Practice solving similar polar equation problems for exam preparation
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for exams in calculus, particularly those focusing on polar equations, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in this area.

suporia
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
Not homework, just trying to learn how to solve this problem for an exam.

Homework Statement



https://dl.dropbox.com/u/23889576/Screenshots/10.png

Homework Equations



[itex]\int_{a}^{b} \sqrt { (\frac{dr}{dθ})^2 + r^2 }\, dθ[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Had much difficulty, could not even derive the original derivative function for this problem.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
welcome to pf!

hi suporia! welcome to pf! :wink:

the figure is symmetric, so when one bug is at (r,θ), the next is at (r,θ+π/2) …

does that help? :smile:
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K