Quick spherical coordinate question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the inertia matrix for a shape using spherical coordinates. The original poster is seeking clarification on the appropriate limits of integration for the angles phi and theta in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to define the limits of integration for theta and phi in spherical coordinates and questions whether their chosen limits are correct. Another participant suggests an alternative interpretation of the limits based on a different definition of theta.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with one participant providing an alternative suggestion for the limits of integration, which the original poster found helpful. There appears to be a productive exchange regarding the visualization of the problem and the definitions of the angles.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a convention for defining the angles in spherical coordinates, which may influence the limits of integration. The original poster's calculation of Izz resulting in zero raises questions about the setup and assumptions being made.

Shaybay92
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So I have the following shape for which I want to calculate the inertia matrix. Basically I just want to know what limits of integration I should use if I am using spherical coordinates. Assume the convention that phi is the angle from x to y in the xy plane and theta is from z to the xy plane. Thus the limits I chose were [theta, -pi/2,pi/2] and [phi,0,pi/2]. Do you agree with these? The reason I ask is I am getting zero for my calculation of Izz.

Thanks in advance.
9uox75.jpg

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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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if your defining theta from the positive z axis then i think theta should go from 0 to pi/2
and i think phi is from 0 to pi .
 
Thanks so much! I just wasn't visualizing it properly, and I used those values and it seems to be working :D
 
no problem
 

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