Surface Area Equality: The Simplest Explanation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical derivation of surface area formulas in three-dimensional space, specifically addressing the equality of two expressions: surface area = (y)(1 + f'(x)²)^(1/2) and surface area = (x)(1 + f'(x)²)^(1/2). Participants clarify that these formulas relate to the surface area of a function z(x,y) projected onto a region R, derived from the surface integral. The correct approach involves using integrals to calculate the surface area, particularly in the context of surfaces of rotation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of surface integrals in multivariable calculus
  • Familiarity with partial derivatives and their applications
  • Knowledge of arc length calculations in calculus
  • Concept of surfaces of rotation in three-dimensional geometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of surface area formulas using surface integrals
  • Learn about parametrization techniques for surfaces in 3D
  • Explore the application of partial derivatives in calculating surface area
  • Investigate the relationship between arc length and surface area in calculus
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Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus, geometry, and physics, who seek to understand surface area calculations and their applications in three-dimensional contexts.

calculushelp
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ok why does

surface area = ( y) ( 1+ f ' (x)^(2) )^(1/2)



equal


surface area = (x ) (1+ f ' (x)^(2) )^(1/2)



the simplest explanation please.
 
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Where did you get those formulae from? And surface area of what? You're supposed to do a surface integral in 3D space (the details of which depend on the parametrisation of the surface area)to get the surface area, but I don't see any integral sign. The formulae you gave resembles the one given for arc length calculation.

For a surface area of a function in 3D, for which the surface z(x,y) is given, the surface area of the portion that projects down onto a region R is given by \int \int_R \sqrt{\left(\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \right)^2 + \left(\frac{\partial z}{\partial y}\right)^2 + 1} \ \ dA
 
calculushelp said:
ok why does

surface area = ( y) ( 1+ f ' (x)^(2) )^(1/2)



equal


surface area = (x ) (1+ f ' (x)^(2) )^(1/2)



the simplest explanation please.

There can be no explanation- what you have written makes no sense at all! Are there supposed to be integrals in there?
Are you talking about the area of surfaces of rotation?
 
yes! in rotation! sorry i didnt know how to put an integral sign.
 

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