Solving Polar Form of $\sin x$: Simple Equations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around converting the Cartesian equation of the sine function, $$y=\sin(x)$$, into its polar form. Participants explore the implications of this conversion and the resulting equations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that converting $$y=\sin(x)$$ to polar form results in $$r=1$$, questioning the validity of this conclusion.
  • Another participant echoes the same conversion, expressing confusion over the resulting plots and the equations derived.
  • Some participants note that the polar equation $$r=1$$ corresponds to a circle of radius 1, centered at the origin, contrasting it with the sine wave behavior of the Cartesian equation.
  • A later reply introduces an implicit polar relation $$r\sin(\theta)=\sin(r\cos(\theta))$$, suggesting a more complex relationship between the polar and Cartesian forms.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the additional explanations, indicating that their primary learning resource lacks depth on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the polar form conversion, with some asserting that $$r=1$$ does not represent a sine wave, while others provide alternative interpretations and relations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in understanding the conversion process, including the dependence on definitions and the implications of different forms of equations.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the conversion between Cartesian and polar coordinates, particularly in the context of trigonometric functions, may find this discussion relevant.

karush
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$$y=\sin\left({x}\right) $$
write in polar form

This reduces to $$r=1$$

So that's not = plots

Not sure why I can't get these simple equations
 
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karush said:
$$y=\sin\left({x}\right) $$
write in polar form

This reduces to $$r=1$$

So that's not = plots

Not sure why I can't get these simple equations

Why do you think r = 1 is wrong?
 
so it's not a sinx wave
 
The Cartesian version of the polar equation $r=1$ is:

$$x^2+y^2=1$$

Both are circles of radius 1, centered at the origin.

The Cartesian equation:

$$y=\sin(x)$$

will have the implicit polar relation:

$$r\sin(\theta)=\sin(r\cos(\theta))$$
 
apreciate the added help
the book was short on explaining things
my major source of learning is MHB
 

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