Spherical Coordinates (need work double checked please)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving spherical coordinates and the conversion of equations relating to the coordinates x, y, and z. The original poster seeks verification of their calculations in the context of a mathematical problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster presents their calculations and expresses uncertainty about their correctness due to conflicting results from an online submission. Some participants suggest using trigonometric identities to simplify the expression, while others question the applicability of these identities given the different angles involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering suggestions for simplification and questioning the assumptions made in the calculations. There is no explicit consensus yet, as different interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates that they have attempted the problem multiple times with consistent results, yet the feedback from the online submission suggests an error, raising concerns about the accuracy of their calculations.

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Could someone double check to make sure my calculations are all done right? I've done this problem several times and gotten the same answer but the online submission says its wrong so I need someone else to check my work. thanks!


Homework Statement




untitled-1.jpg


Homework Equations



x = ρ sin(Φ) cos(θ)
y = ρ sin(Φ) sin(θ)
z = p cos(Φ)

The Attempt at a Solution



4z2 = x2+y2

4p 2cos2(Φ) = ρ 2sin2(Φ) cos2(θ) + ρ 2sin2(Φ) sin2(θ)

cos2(Φ) = (ρ 2sin2(Φ) cos2(θ) + ρ 2sin2(Φ) sin2(θ))/ (ρ 2 *4)

***(ρ2's cancel right?)****


so I'm left with for an answer

cos2(Φ) = (sin2(Φ) cos2(θ) + sin2(Φ) sin2(θ))/ 4)
 
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How about using the fact that [itex]sin^2(\theta)+ cos^2(\theta)= 1[/itex]?!
 
I didn't think you could use that when your are talking about two different angles (Φ and θ)?

I tried it anyway though and its a no go...
 
What HallsOfIvy meant was that you should factor out sin2(Φ) in the numerator of your final expression and apply that trigo identity. That will simplify your final answer.
 

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