Polar to Rectangular conversions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around converting the polar equation r² = 2cos(2θ) into rectangular form, which involves understanding the relationships between polar and rectangular coordinates.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the conversion by substituting known relationships such as x = rcos(θ) and y = rsin(θ). Some express confusion and seek clarification on how to proceed after initial substitutions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on how to manipulate the equation further, suggesting the use of trigonometric identities and substitutions. There appears to be a mix of attempts to clarify the process and expressions of being stuck at various points.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of participants feeling uncertain about the steps to take next, and some have reiterated the original problem setup while seeking assistance. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to navigate the conversion process without arriving at a definitive solution.

Eng67
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I am at a standstill with the solution to this problem.

I need to convert r^2=2cos(2 theta) to rectangular form.

I know that x = rcos(theta) and y = rsin(theta)

so far I have r = (2cos(2theta))/r

then I substitute for r

sqrt(x^2+y^2)= (2cos(2theta))/sqrt(x^2+y^2)

Then I hit a brick wall.

please help me knock down this wall.

Thanks
 
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Replace r² by x²+y² and theta = arctan(y/x).
 
So I then would have

sqrt(x^2+y^2)= (2cos(2arctan y/x))/sqrt(x^2+y^2)

I am still stuck.
 
Eng67 said:
I am at a standstill with the solution to this problem.

I need to convert r^2=2cos(2 theta) to rectangular form.

I know that x = rcos(theta) and y = rsin(theta)

so far I have r = (2cos(2theta))/r

then I substitute for r

sqrt(x^2+y^2)= (2cos(2theta))/sqrt(x^2+y^2)

Then I hit a brick wall.

please help me knock down this wall.

Thanks

Back up a little! You have r^2= 2 cos(2\theta) so first note that cos(2\theta)= cos^2(\theta)- sin^2(\theta) so that
r^2= 2(cos^2(\theta)- sin^2(\theta))
Now multiply on both sides by r2 to get
(r^2)^2= 2(r^2cos^2(\theta)- r^2sin^2(\theta))
I'll bet you can convert that to rectangular coordinates!
 
Thanks!

This is now so simple.
 

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