Solving an Integral with a Bent Line Path

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the line integral ∫_C xyds, where C is defined as a bent line connecting the points (0,0) to (1,1) and then to (1,0). The subject area involves calculus, specifically line integrals and parameterization of paths.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to split the integral into two segments based on the path. They successfully parameterize the first segment but express difficulty in finding a suitable parameterization for the second segment. Other participants suggest potential parameterizations and question the direction of the variable changes.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in exploring parameterizations for the second part of the integral. Some suggestions have been made, and there is a recognition of the need for y to decrease from 1 to 0 while x remains constant. A viable parameterization has been confirmed by one participant.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct direction of the variable changes in the parameterization, particularly for the second segment of the path. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify the setup of the problem without providing a complete solution.

mit_hacker
Messages
86
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



∫_C▒〖xyds:〗

where C is the bent line from (0,0) to (1,1) and then to (1,0).

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I split the paths into two pieces. In the first one, x=t, y=t and we integrate from 0 to 1. However, for the second part, I am unable to come up with the parameterization. Please advise on how this is done.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
mit_hacker said:
I split the paths into two pieces. In the first one, x=t, y=t and we integrate from 0 to 1. However, for the second part, I am unable to come up with the parameterization. Please advise on how this is done.

Notice that in the second case, the value of x stays constant, while the value of y varies from 1 to 0. So, what parameterization suggests itself?
 
Is it...

Is it x=1 and y=t from 0 < t < 1??
 
mit_hacker said:
Is it x=1 and y=t from 0 < t < 1??

Not quite. Remember you want y to go from 1 to 0, while t goes from 0 to 1. If you take y=t, then y goes from 0 to 1 as t goes from 0 to 1
 
How about this?

Is it x=1 and y=1-t from 0 < t < 1??
 
Yes, that works.
 

Similar threads

Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
5K
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K