Using Trapezoid Rule Twice huh?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the trapezoidal rule in estimating the volume of water in a pit by calculating cross-sectional areas. The problem involves understanding how to apply the trapezoidal rule multiple times in a two-dimensional context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial attempt to apply the trapezoidal rule and the confusion regarding the second application. There is mention of calculating areas for multiple cross sections and the need to clarify the method of applying the trapezoidal rule in a two-dimensional integral context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the application of the trapezoidal rule for estimating volumes and questioning the necessity of performing the calculation multiple times. There is no explicit consensus yet on the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

One participant suggests that the topic may be more appropriate for a different forum category, indicating a potential mismatch in the subject matter's complexity or focus.

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Homework Statement


trape.png

DSC08494.jpg


Homework Equations


A=(1/2)w[E+2M]
Where w=width between each interval
E=f(a0)+f(an) is the sum of the end values
M=f(a1)+f(a2)+...f(an-1)


The Attempt at a Solution



I found the area of the first trapezoidal rule but can't identify the other
w=(15/5)=3metres
E=2.6+2.4=5
M=3+3.2+2.9+2.4=11.5

Therefore, A=(1/2)w[E+2M]=42

I couldn't identify the 2nd one
 
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In order to calculate the volume of water in the pit, you can calculate the area of each of the 6 cross sections using the trapezoidal rule. Make a table or plot of the resulting cross sectional areas and use the trapezoidal rule again in the direction perpendicular to the cross sections to calculate the volume of water in the pit.
 
You are estimating a volume, so you are doing a 2-dimensional integral of the form [tex]\int \int f(x,y) \, dx \, dy [\tex] where f(x,y) = depth at point (x,y). For each x, you do the trapezoidal rule to estimate [itex]\int f(x,y)\, dy[/itex], and you are doing that at the x-points 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 (meters). Of course, at different x you have different numbers of y-points, so rather than doing the trapezoidal rule twice, I would rather say you are doing it 5 times (once for each of the 5 x-values).<br /> <br /> RGV[/tex]
 
Shouldn't this be in Calculus and Beyond?
 

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