# Surface Integrals in Polar Coordinates

1. Nov 29, 2009

### DrGlove

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Find the area cut from the surface z = 2xy by the cylinder x^2 + y^2 = 6.
[Hint: Set up the integral using rectangular coodinates, then switch to polar coordinates.]

2. Relevant equations
$$A = \iint \sqrt{{z_x}^2+{z_y}^2+1}dxdy = \iint \sqrt{{r^2}+{r^2}{z_r}^2+{r^2}{z_\theta}^2} dr d\theta$$

3. The attempt at a solution
$$\begin{gather*} z_x = 2y\\ z_y = 2x\\ \\ A = 4\int_{0}^{\sqrt{6}} \int_{0}^{\sqrt{y^2-6}} \sqrt{4{y^2}+4{x^2}+1} dx dy\\\\ A = 4\int_{0}^{\sqrt{6}} \int_{0}^{\sqrt{y^2-6}} \sqrt{4{r^2}+1} dx dy\\\\ A = \int_{0}^{2\pi} \int_{0}^{\sqrt{6}} \sqrt{4{r^2}+1} dr\frac{\partial x}{\partial r} d\theta \frac{\partial y}{\partial\theta} = \int_{0}^{2\pi} \int_{0}^{\sqrt{6}} r {\cos}^2\theta \sqrt{4{r^2}+1} dr d\theta\\\\ \end{gather*}$$

From there, I can work the problem down, but I'm not sure if my conversion from dx -> dr, or dy -> d theta is even a valid operation. I don't see a ready way to do this problem if I start straight in with polar (cylindrical) coordinates, since the algebra quickly becomes very complex. I guess what I need to know, is how do I appropriately convert dx*dy -> dr*dtheta?

Any help appreciated!

Last edited: Nov 29, 2009
2. Nov 29, 2009

### Dick

The element of area dx*dy is r*dr*dtheta in polar coordinates. In a problem like this, you don't try to derive it. You just remember it and substitute.

3. Nov 29, 2009

### DrGlove

D'oh! Thanks for pointing that out :P