What Shape is Formed by Revolving y = sqrt(a^2 - x^2) Around the X-axis?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the surface area of the curve defined by the equation y = sqrt(a^2 - x^2) when it is revolved around the x-axis. Participants are exploring the geometric implications of this transformation and the relationship to known shapes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants inquire about the original poster's attempts and understanding of the problem, particularly regarding the setup and the concept of arc length. There are questions about the geometric shape formed by the revolution and its relation to familiar geometric figures like a cylinder.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the original poster's understanding and providing hints about relevant mathematical concepts. There is no explicit consensus yet, but guidance on considering arc length and surface area formulas has been suggested.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the importance of using a template for homework posts and emphasize the need for the original poster to clarify their previous attempts to facilitate better assistance.

calc II
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?Find the surface area when Y = (a^2 - x^2)^(1/2) is revolved around the x-axis?

?Geometrically, what have you found?

Please help. Thank you.
 
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Could you show us what you have tried? It might give us an idea on where you need help.

Also, there is a template for homework posts. For future reference, please use it. It should appear by default whenever you start a new topic in the homework section.
 
Char. Limit said:
Could you show us what you have tried? It might give us an idea on where you need help.

Also, there is a template for homework posts. For future reference, please use it. It should appear by default whenever you start a new topic in the homework section.

I just need help on how to set up the problem. (And i'll definitely use the template next time)
 
Well, firstly, how well do you know arc length? Because it will be needed here...

And tell me, how would you find the surface area of a regular solid, like say a cylinder, that has no top or bottom to consider?

Your equation in a more elegant format:

y=\sqrt{a^2-x^2}
 
calc II said:
?Find the surface area when Y = (a^2 - x^2)^(1/2) is revolved around the x-axis?

?Geometrically, what have you found?

Please help. Thank you.

Your equation y=\sqrt{a^2-x^2} may be more recognizable in the form y^2+x^2=a^2. What shape does the graph of this equation have? Can you deduce how y=\sqrt{a^2-x^2} relates to y^2+x^2=a^2? This should help with the second question (and also give you an idea of what to expect for the answer to the first question). As Char.Limit pointed out, a good look at the arc length and surface area formulas might be in order.
 

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