Solving Volume Problem with f(x)=kx2+x3

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the function f(x) = kx² + x³, where k is a positive constant. The task is to analyze the region R in the first quadrant bounded by the graph of f and the x-axis, focusing on finding values of k for which the area of R equals 2, and expressing the volume generated when R is rotated around the x-axis, as well as the perimeter of R.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss finding the x-intercepts of the function and setting up integrals to find the area. There is uncertainty about the correct form of the function and the limits of integration. Some participants express confusion about how to express the volume and perimeter in terms of k, while others question the implications of the function's intercepts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have provided insights into the implications of the function's form, while others are seeking clarification on how to express their answers in terms of k. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the correct formulation of the function, with participants correcting each other about the signs in the equation. The original poster's understanding of the limits of integration and the meaning of "in terms of k" is also under scrutiny.

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Homework Statement


f(x)=kx2+x3, where is k is a positive constant. Let R be the region in the first quadrant bounded by the graph of F and the x-axis.

a. Find all values of the constant k for which the area of R equals 2.
b. For k>0, write an integral expression in terms of k for the volume of the solid generated when R is rotated around x-axis.
c. For k>0, write an expression in terms of k, involving one or more integrals, that gives the perimeter of R.

Homework Equations


V= pi *r2


The Attempt at a Solution



a. For a. I find the interception of F(x) and the x-axis. After that, I set up an integral of f(x) evaluating from 0 to k and set that integral equal to 2. Am I right.

b. and c. I don't really get the part of in terms of k. so I just do a normal integration of dish method of f(x) and I substitute the number in part a for k. Am I right ? Or is it trickier ?
 
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Are you sure you have the right formula for f? The formula that you gave, f(x) = kx^2 + x^3, has an intercept at (0, 0) and no others on the positive x-axis. This means that the area in the first quadrant between the graph of f and the x-axis is infinite.

In you attempt to find the answer to part a, why would you have k as a limit of integration? Before going on to parts b and c, make sure that you are giving us the correct information for this problem.
 
I am sorry it's minus not plus.

Because k is a x-intercept ?

Am I right ?
 
What's "minus not plus"!

Do you mean it should be y= kx2- x3? In that case y= x2(k- x) so x= 0 is a double root and x= k is a root.

If you rotate the curve, for 0< x< k, around the x-axis each cross section perpendicular to the x-axis is a circle with radius y= kx2- x3. The area of such a circle is [itex]k\pi y^2[/itex].

The perimeter of R consists of two parts: the curve between x= 0 and x= k and the straight line from (0,0) to (k, 0).
 
Can you explain about part b ? Why there is k there ? I got only pi*^2
 
In part b, the volume of a typical volume element is
[tex]\Delta V = \pi y^2 \Delta x[/tex]
and not [tex]k \pi y^2[/tex] as Halls said.

or,
[tex]\Delta V = \pi (x^2(k - x))^2 \Delta x[/tex]

So what should the integral look like? (All you need to do is write the integral.)

I took the problem further and calculated the integral, getting:
[tex]\pi k^7 [\frac{1}{5} - \frac{1}{3} + \frac{1}{7}][/tex]
 
nns91 said:
Can you explain about part b ? Why there is k there ? I got only pi*^2
I have no idea where the k came from! It snuck in while I wasn't looking!
 
what do you guys think the " in term of k" means ? Do I just write a normal integral or is it trickier ?
 
"In terms of k" means that when you write the integral expressions, they will involve k, which is unspecified. For parts b and c, you don't actually have to evaluate the integrals--at least that's how I interpret the instructions.
 
  • #10
So do I substitute the k I found in part a in or just leave it as k ?
 

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