Proper way to graph xy = 1 for a cylindrical shell problem

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To graph the equation xy = 1 for a cylindrical shell problem, it is essential to integrate with respect to y when rotating around the x-axis. The correct approach involves using the function x = 1/y, ensuring that the integrand matches the variable of integration. The discussion clarifies that while x = 1/y and y = 1/x represent the same relationship, they are not interchangeable in this context. Using y = 1/x would be inappropriate since it does not align with the integration variable. Properly aligning variables is crucial for accurate integration and obtaining the correct volume.
Eddie10
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Homework Statement


Proper way to graph xy = 1 for a Cylindrical Shell problems.

Homework Equations



V = ∫^b_a 2πy f(y) dy

The Attempt at a Solution


I am rotating around the x-axis, so I am integrating with respect to y, but should I choose x = 1/y, or y = 1/x to solve my problem?

How are these two functions different? x = 1/y and y = 1/x different?
 
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They aren't different. Why do you think they are?
 
vela said:
They aren't different. Why do you think they are?
Well, if I am integrating with all y variables, shouldn't it make sense to use x = 1/y, instead of y = 1/x, so the variables match? For example, v = 2pi (Integrand Sign) f(y) dy.

Or, in this case, does the variables used not affect the answer once integration is applied?
 
Yes, of course. You need the integrand to be in terms of ##y## if you're integrating with respect to ##y##. Isn't this always the case? I guess I'm not sure why you'd think you could use 1/x in this case.
 
vela said:
Yes, of course. You need the integrand to be in terms of ##y## if you're integrating with respect to ##y##. Isn't this always the case? I guess I'm not sure why you'd think you could use 1/x in this case.

Yeah, I was double checking to make sure I couldn't use 1/x in this case, since I am integrating everything for "dy" instead of "dx".

Thanks.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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