Problem with limits of integration - converting double integral to polar form

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around converting a double integral from Cartesian to polar coordinates, specifically focusing on the limits of integration. The original integral is presented as \(\int_0^2 \int_0^\sqrt{2x-x^2} xy \, dy \, dx\).

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the conversion of limits for the integral, questioning the reasoning behind using polar coordinates. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between Cartesian and polar coordinates, particularly regarding the limits for \(r\) and \(\theta\).

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the geometric interpretation of the region described by the integral, suggesting that a visual representation may aid in understanding the limits of integration. There is an ongoing exploration of the correct limits for \(r\) and \(\theta\) in polar coordinates.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the region of integration is bounded by a specific curve, with some disagreement on the geometric description of that curve. The discussion includes clarifications on the definitions and relationships between the variables in Cartesian and polar forms.

e^(i Pi)+1=0
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Homework Statement


\int_0^2 \int_0^\sqrt{2x-x^2} xy,dy,dx

I know the answer, but how does the 2 in the outer integral become pi/2?? I'm fine with everything else, I just can't get this...
 
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Do you have a particular reason for calculating this integral in polar form? It's much easier with Carteesian coordinates. Also I don't understand your question. What is "outer integral"?
 
The outer integral is the dx integral, and it's a practice problem out of the book. I know the upper limit for dy in polar is r=2cos(theta) which I got by taking y=root(2x-x2) and converting to polar and solving for r. Why won't this work for dx?
 
e^(i Pi)+1=0 said:
I know the upper limit for dy in polar is r=2cos(theta)

But what good is that? You need the limits for r and theta, not for x and y. If you want to change to polar coordinates, start by figuring out how x and y are related to r and θ (hint, x≠rcosθ)
 
I don't think you read very carefully.
 
e^(i Pi)+1=0 said:
the upper limit for dy in polar is r=2cos(theta)
You mean, the upper limit for r is 2cos(θ).
To understand the range for θ, it's easiest to draw a picture. The region is bounded above by an inverted parabola passing through (0,0) and (2,0). Since it is wholly within the first quadrant, you have 0 ≤ θ ≤ π/2. For any given θ in that range, r can be anything from 0 to the point on the parabola at that θ. Allowing θ to go from 0 to π/2 therefore captures the whole region and nothing but.
 
Well said, haruspex, but the area is not an "inverted parabola". It is the upper semi-circle of the circle with center at (1, 0) and radius 1.

y= \sqrt{2x- x^2} and, squaring, y^2= 2x- x^2.
x^2- 2x+ y^2= 0, x^2- 2x+ 1+ y^2= 1,
(x- 1)^2+ y^2= 1.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Well said, haruspex, but the area is not an "inverted parabola".
Good catch. I must have dropped the square root.
 

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