Spherical vs cylindrical notation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the differences between spherical and cylindrical coordinate systems in the context of triple integrals. In spherical coordinates, the volume element is expressed as ##dV = \rho^2 \sin(\phi) d\rho d\theta d\phi##, while in cylindrical coordinates, it is ##dV = r \, dz \, dr \, d\theta##. The order of integration in these two systems is not fixed and can vary based on the specific problem being solved. The participants agree that the arrangement of the volume element does not significantly impact the integration process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical coordinates and their notation (##(\rho, \theta, \phi)##)
  • Familiarity with cylindrical coordinates and their notation (##(r, \theta, z)##)
  • Knowledge of triple integrals in calculus
  • Basic concepts of volume elements in different coordinate systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of volume elements in spherical coordinates
  • Explore the applications of triple integrals in physics and engineering
  • Learn about the geometric interpretations of spherical and cylindrical coordinates
  • Practice converting between coordinate systems for various integrals
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Students in calculus, particularly those studying multivariable calculus, as well as educators and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of coordinate systems and integration techniques.

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Homework Statement


Plotting a point in spherical coordinates means using the format ##(\rho, \theta, \phi)## in place of ##(x, y, z)##. Taking a triple integral means replacing ##dV## with ##\rho ^2 sin(\phi) d\rho d\theta d\phi ## As you can see, ##\rho, \theta, \phi ## are all in the same order.

However, for cylindrical coordinates, my textbook plots ##(r, \theta, z)## for points, but replaces ##dV## with ##r dz dr d\theta ##. Why are the three integrals suddenly switched around?

Homework Equations


n/a

The Attempt at a Solution


Is there a reason behind this? I dislike rote memorization
 
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Nothing to worry about, ##dV## is an elemental volume with the shape of a "box". You won't care how you are going to arrange the order of the formula for the volume of a box, will you.
 
Last edited:
I mostly agree with blue_leaf77 -- the order of integration doesn't really matter. The "box" is a rectangular paralellipiped in cartesian coordinates, but in cylindrical or spherical coordinates, the ends aren't flat, and the "box" tapers toward the small end.
 

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