Translate the rectangular equation to spherical

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around translating a rectangular equation into spherical and cylindrical coordinates. The original poster presents a specific equation and seeks assistance in manipulating it into the desired forms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transformation of the equation from rectangular to spherical coordinates, with one participant attempting to factor the equation and solve for ρ. Questions arise regarding the correct approach to isolating ρ and whether to set the equation equal to zero or maintain its current form.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on how to approach the problem, suggesting methods such as completing the square or using the quadratic formula to solve for ρ. There is an acknowledgment of the quadratic nature of the equation, and multiple interpretations of how to proceed are being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of forum rules requiring participants to demonstrate their attempts before receiving assistance, which influences the nature of the responses and guidance provided.

whynot314
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Translate the rectangular equation to spherical and cylindrical equations.

http://www.texify.com/img/%5CLARGE%5C%21x%5E2%2By%5E2%2B2y-3x%2Bz%5E2%3D25.gif
 
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whynot314 said:
Translate the rectangular equation to spherical and cylindrical equations.

http://www.texify.com/img/%5CLARGE%5C%21x%5E2%2By%5E2%2B2y-3x%2Bz%5E2%3D25.gif
Hello whynot314. Welcome to PF!

What have you tried?

Where are you stuck?

We can't help you until you show us what you tried. It in the rules .
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I first transformed x^2+y^2+z^2 into ρ^2

ρ^2+2ρsinϕsinθ-3ρsinϕcosθ=25

then factored out a ρ

ρ(ρ+2sinϕsinθ-3sinϕcosθ)=25

I want to solve for ρ,

I am confused as to, weather or not subtract 25 and set it equal to zero or keep it like this and have two equations where

ρ=25

and


ρ=25-2sinϕsinθ+3sinϕcosθ
 
Then what you need is a good class in arithmetic! If ab= c it does NOT follow that "a= c or b= c!

If that isn't enough, if xy= 10, it does NOT follow that either x= 10 (and y= 1) or y= 10 (and x= 1). There are an infinite number of soutions to xy= 10.
 
whynot314 said:
I first transformed x^2+y^2+z^2 into ρ^2

ρ^2+2ρsinϕsinθ-3ρsinϕcosθ=25

then factored out a ρ

ρ(ρ+2sinϕsinθ-3sinϕcosθ)=25

I want to solve for ρ,

I am confused as to, weather or not subtract 25 and set it equal to zero or keep it like this and have two equations where

ρ=25

and

ρ=25-2sinϕsinθ+3sinϕcosθ
How can you say ρ = 25 ?

ρ2 + 2ρsinϕsinθ-3ρsinϕcosθ = 25 is quadratic in ρ .

Complete the square or use the quadratic formula to solve for ρ.

For either, you may want to rewrite your equation as:
ρ2 + 2ρsinϕ(sinθ-cosθ) = 25​
To complete the square, add
\sin^2\phi\left(\sin\theta-\cos\theta\right)^2​
to both sides.

To use the quadratic formula instead, subtract 25 from both sides of
ρ2 + 2ρsinϕ(sinθ-cosθ) = 25 .​
 

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