Solving for $k$: $\pi\int_{-1}^{1} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 6\pi$

  • MHB
  • Thread starter karush
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the disk method for finding volumes of solids of revolution, using the function $u(x)= \sqrt{x+1}$ as an example. The conversation also covers the use of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus to solve for the constant $k$ in the definite integral, and ultimately concludes that $k=3$.
  • #1
karush
Gold Member
MHB
3,269
5
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/5148
$u\left(x\right)=\sqrt{x+1}$

$\pi\int_{-1}^{1} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 2\pi$

$\pi\int_{1}^{k} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 6\pi$

I don't know how to get $k$
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The way I would set this up is:

\(\displaystyle 3\int_{-1}^{1} x+1\,dx=\int_{1}^{k} x+1\,dx\)

After you apply the FTOC, you should be able to solve for $k$. :)
 
  • #3
But aren't we dealing with volume?
 
  • #4
karush said:
But aren't we dealing with volume?

Yes, solids of revolution (disk method), both of which will have $\pi$ as a factor, which we can divide out. :)
 
  • #5
$u\left(x\right)=\sqrt{x+1}$

so
$\pi\int_{1}^{k} u\left(x\right) \,dx = 6\pi$

$\frac{{k}^{2}}{2}+k-\frac{3}{2}=6$

${k}^{2}+2k-15=0$

so
$k=3\ k=-5$
answer is $k=3$
 
Last edited:
  • #6
Yes, here's my working:

\(\displaystyle 3\int_{-1}^{1} x+1\,dx=\int_{1}^{k} x+1\,dx\)

\(\displaystyle 3\left[\frac{x^2}{2}+x\right]_{-1}^1=\left[\frac{x^2}{2}+x\right]_1^k\)

\(\displaystyle 3\left(\left(\frac{1}{2}+1\right)-\left(\frac{1}{2}-1\right)\right)=\left(\left(\frac{k^2}{2}+k\right)-\left(\frac{1}{2}+1\right)\right)\)

\(\displaystyle 6=\frac{k^2}{2}+k-\frac{3}{2}\)

\(\displaystyle k^2+2k-15=0\)

\(\displaystyle (k-3)(k+5)=0\)

Since we require $1<k$, we conclude that:

\(\displaystyle k=3\).
 

1. What is the purpose of solving for k in this equation?

The purpose of solving for k in this equation is to determine the value of the constant that will make the equation true. In other words, we are trying to find the value of k that makes the integral equal to 6π.

2. How do we solve for k in this equation?

To solve for k, we can use algebraic techniques such as isolating k on one side of the equation and simplifying the integral on the other side. This may involve expanding the integral and using basic integration rules to simplify it.

3. What is the significance of π in this equation?

The presence of π in this equation indicates that the integral is related to circular or spherical shapes. This is because π is a constant that represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.

4. Can this equation be solved without using calculus?

No, this equation cannot be solved without using calculus. The integral in the equation represents the area under a curve, which is a concept that is only defined in calculus. Therefore, we need to use integration techniques to solve for k.

5. What are the possible values of k in this equation?

The possible values of k in this equation are infinite, as there are infinite functions that could satisfy the integral. However, we can find a specific value for k by solving the equation and using the given limits of the integral.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
341
Replies
1
Views
927
  • Calculus
Replies
29
Views
708
  • Calculus
Replies
2
Views
562
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
695
Replies
2
Views
281
Replies
12
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
945
Back
Top