Simple function question (Function to represent radius)

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on calculating the volume of air required to inflate a spherical balloon from radius r to radius r + 1 centimeters using the formula V(r) = 4/3 π r³. The correct function representing this volume difference is f(r) = 4/3 π ((r + 1)³ - r³), which simplifies to f(r) = 4/3 π (3r² + 3r + 1). The user sought clarification on how this result was derived, emphasizing the importance of understanding the difference between the two volume calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical volume calculation using V(r) = 4/3 π r³
  • Basic algebra for simplifying polynomial expressions
  • Familiarity with the concept of function representation in mathematics
  • Knowledge of calculus concepts related to volume changes (optional)
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  • Study the derivation of volume formulas for different geometric shapes
  • Learn about polynomial expansion and simplification techniques
  • Explore applications of volume calculations in real-world scenarios
  • Investigate the relationship between radius changes and volume in calculus
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Students studying geometry, mathematics educators, and anyone interested in understanding volume calculations and function representation in mathematical contexts.

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Homework Statement



Ok here is the question, and I will give the answer below. I am not really clear on how the instructor got this answer. So, if anyone could explain the answer a little, I would REALLY appreciate it!

Question: A spherical balloon with radius r centimeters has volume given by the formula V(r) = 4/3 pi r^3

Find a function that represents the amount of air required to inflate the balloon from a radius of r centimeters to a radius of r + 1 centimeters.

ANSWER: f(r) = 4/3 pi (r+1)^3 -4/3 pi r^3 = 4/3 pi (3r^2 + 3r + 1)

I am not sure why and how this is the answer. ?


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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Alright...
You know that the amount of air (volume units) in a balloon with radius r is given by the formula for the volume you've written, that is, V1 = [itex]\frac{4}{3}\pi r^{3}[/itex].
Now, the volume (=the volume the air would take) of a balloon with radius r+1 is given by the same formula, only r+1 instead of r: V2 = [itex]\frac{4}{3}\pi (r+1)^{3}[/itex].

What is then the difference between the two quantities? Well, for that you have to calculate the difference surprisingly!

Diff_V = V2 - V1

And that's what you've written.
 

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