Volume about x axis using cylindrical shells

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on finding the volume of a solid obtained by rotating a region bounded by specific curves about the x-axis using the method of cylindrical shells. Participants explore different approaches to the problem, including the use of washers and cylindrical shells, and share their calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem and states the expected answer as $\frac{21\pi}{2}$ but struggles with the cylindrical shells method using the formula $V=2\pi\int_{a}^{b} \,xf(x)dx$.
  • Another participant suggests that using washers may be more effective for this problem and provides an alternative volume calculation involving integrals.
  • A third participant acknowledges a mistake in their earlier calculations, specifically forgetting to square the equations.
  • A later reply provides a volume element formula $dV=2\pi y\left(y^2+1\right)\,dy$ and proposes a definite integral to compute the total volume.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best method to use for solving the problem, as different approaches are suggested and some participants express confusion or corrections to their earlier claims.

Contextual Notes

Some participants' calculations depend on specific interpretations of the problem, and there are unresolved aspects regarding the integration limits and the choice of method (cylindrical shells vs. washers).

karush
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Use the method of cylindrical shells to find the volume
of the solid obtained by rotating the region bounded by the given curves about the x axis.

$x=1+{y}^{2}$, $x=0$, $y-1$, $y=2$

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/4237

The answer is $\frac{21\pi}{2}$ but I couldn't get it using $V=2\pi\int_{a}^{b} \,xf(x)dx$
 
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karush said:
Use the method of cylindrical shells to find the volume
of the solid obtained by rotating the region bounded by the given curves about the x axis.

$x=1+{y}^{2}$, $x=0$, $y-1$, $y=2$
The answer is $\frac{21\pi}{2}$ but I couldn't get it using $V=2\pi\int_{a}^{b} \,xf(x)dx$

Washers work best in this case. Try $\displaystyle \begin{align*} V = \pi \int_0^2{ 2^2 - 1^2\,\mathrm{d}x } + \pi \int_2^5{ 2^2 - \left( \sqrt{x - 1} \right) ^2 \,\mathrm{d}x } \end{align*}$.
 
got it, I forgot to square the equations
 
karush said:
Use the method of cylindrical shells to find the volume...

The volume of an element is:

$$dV=2\pi y\left(y^2+1\right)\,dy$$

Thus, the total volume is:

$$V=2\pi\int_1^2 y^3+y\,dy$$

Computing the definite integral will give you the desired result. :D
 

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