Triple integral-spherical coordinates

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the mass of a solid defined by the inequality x^2+y^2+z^2=9, situated above the XY-plane, using a triple integral in spherical coordinates. Additionally, the centroid of the solid is to be determined.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the setup of the triple integral in spherical coordinates, focusing on determining the limits of integration for the variables p, φ, and θ. There is a specific inquiry into the correct interpretation of φ and its limits.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the limits of integration, particularly for φ, suggesting it ranges from 0 to π/2. However, there is still a need for confirmation of these limits and the overall setup, indicating ongoing exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the definitions of φ and θ in spherical coordinates, with differing conventions mentioned. This may affect the understanding of the limits and the setup of the integral.

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Homework Statement



Here is exactly what the problem says:
Let T be a solid of density one that lies below x^2+y^2+z^2=9 and above the XY-plane.
a) Use the triple integral to find its mass.
b) Find the centroid.

Homework Equations



I believe that this should be an integral in spherical coordinates. I know the relevant equation is p^2sin(phi) dpd(phi)d(theta).

The Attempt at a Solution



Obviously the first step is to set up the triple integral in spherical coordinates. I set x^2+y^2+z^2=9 and changed it to p^2=9. This left me with the limits of integration for p being from 0 to 3. I know that theta's integral is normally from 0 to 2(pie). I have no clue how to solve for the 'phi' limits and obviously I can't complete the problem until I do. Please advise as soon as possible what I should do. Thanks!
 
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welcome to pf!

hi mcc123pa! welcome to pf! :smile:

(have a theta: θ and a phi: φ and a pi: π and try using the X2 icon just above the Reply box :wink:)

φ is the latitude (or co-latitude), and it goes from the pole to the equator, so that's … ? :smile:
 


This is not the usual definition of φ in spherical coordinates. Usually φ is the polar coordinate (analogous to longitude, but just starting at 0 and ending at 360, instead of being split between west and east), and θ is the co-latitude (90 degrees-latitude, with latitudes being negative below the x-y plane).
 
Hi Matterwave! :smile:

No, it's ok …

engineers do it the other way round! :biggrin:
 
Hi everyone- thanks for the help so far...

tiny-tim,

From the pole to the equator, that's pie/2. Is that correct?

So I guess in the case that is correct, the limits are as follows:

p = from 0 to 3

phi = from 0 to (pie)/2

theta = from 0 to (2pie)

Please confirm if I have this right everyone. Thanks for your help!
 
mcc123pa said:
Hi everyone- thanks for the help so far...

tiny-tim,

From the pole to the equator, that's pie/2. Is that correct?

So I guess in the case that is correct, the limits are as follows:

p = from 0 to 3

phi = from 0 to (pie)/2

theta = from 0 to (2pie)

Please confirm if I have this right everyone. Thanks for your help!

That's right. But it is "pi", not "pie".
 
Thanks LCKurtz! I'll remember it's pi not pie from now on...thanks for the tip!
 

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