Vector calculus question on showing the area of a surface is infinite

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on demonstrating that the area of the surface defined by the equation z = 1/(x² + y²)^(1/2) for 1 ≤ z < ∞ is infinite. The surface area is calculated using the integral ∫∫_{S}dS = ∫∫_{D}(1+(∂f/∂x)²+(∂f/∂y)²)^(1/2)dxdy, where D is the disk defined by x² + y² ≤ 1. The square root factor in the integral arises from the differential surface element's area, which is essential for accurate surface area calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus concepts, particularly surface integrals.
  • Familiarity with partial derivatives and their application in surface area calculations.
  • Knowledge of the geometric interpretation of surfaces in three-dimensional space.
  • Basic proficiency in mathematical notation and integral calculus.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of surface area formulas in vector calculus.
  • Explore the concept of differential surface elements in depth.
  • Review examples of surface integrals from advanced calculus textbooks.
  • Examine the Wikipedia article on surface integrals for additional insights.
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focused on vector calculus, as well as anyone involved in advanced calculus coursework or research requiring surface area calculations.

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Homework Statement



Let S be the surface z = 1/(x[itex]^{2}[/itex] + y[itex]^{2}[/itex])[itex]^{1/2}[/itex], 1 ≤ z < ∞.
Show that the area of S is infinite.

Homework Equations


the surface S is given by z=f(x,y) with f(x,y)=1/(x[itex]^{2}[/itex]+y[itex]^{2}[/itex])[itex]^{1/2}[/itex] and for x,y in the disk D which is the circle seen when the surface is viewed from the top given by x[itex]^{2}[/itex]+y[itex]^{2}[/itex]≤ 1 z=0. Then the surface area of S is ∫∫[itex]_{S}[/itex]dS=∫∫[itex]_{D}[/itex](1+(∂f/∂x)[itex]^{2}[/itex]+(∂f/∂y)[itex]^{2}[/itex])[itex]^{1/2}[/itex]dxdy. Where has the last line come from. an explanation would be great as I cannot see where this is coming from. This is an example I have found. I am only stuck on this line.

Thanks
 
Last edited:
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its sorted no worries :)
 

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