Area of a Surface of Revolution

In summary, the conversation was about finding the surface area formed by revolving the graph of f(x) = 81 - x^2 about the y axis on the interval [0, 9]. The correct integral to use is 2\pi \int_{0}^{9} (x)\sqrt{1 + (-2x)^2} dx and the answer comes out to be about 3068. The incorrect integral used was 2\pi \int_{0}^{9} (81 - x^2)\sqrt{1 + (-2x)^2} dx, which did not take into account the correct radius of rotation.
  • #1
steelphantom
159
0
I'm having more Calculus troubles here. Here's the problem:

Write the definite integral that represents the area of the surface formed by revolving the graph of [tex]f(x) = 81 - x^2[/tex] on the interval [tex][0, 9][/tex] about the y axis; evaluate the integral to determine the surface area.

By knowing that [tex]f(x) = 81 - x^2[/tex], [tex]f'(x) = -2x[/tex]. I then set up the integral for surface area, and I get this:

[tex]2\pi \int_{0}^{9} (81 - x^2)\sqrt{1 + (-2x)^2} dx[/tex]

Assuming I did that correctly, I can't figure out for the life of me how to evaluate the integral. Any ideas?

Edit: I'm pretty sure I set up the integral wrong. I think it should be:

[tex]2\pi \int_{0}^{9} (x)\sqrt{1 + (-2x)^2} dx[/tex]

If so, I think I found the answer, and it comes out to be about 3068.
 
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  • #2
Your second integral is correct.

Do you know why the first is not?
 
  • #3
pizzasky said:
Your second integral is correct.

Do you know why the first is not?

Well, the forumula for surface area, as far as I know, is

[tex]2\pi \int_{a}^{b} r(x)\sqrt{1 + f'(x)} dx[/tex]

where r(x) is the radius of the ring at the given x. 81 - x^2 isn't the radius; x is. Is that the correct reasoning?
 
  • #4
Yep, that's the reason. :)
 

FAQ: Area of a Surface of Revolution

What is the "Area of a Surface of Revolution"?

The "Area of a Surface of Revolution" refers to the surface area of a three-dimensional shape that is created by rotating a two-dimensional curve around an axis. The resulting shape resembles a curved, hollow object such as a vase or a bowl.

How is the "Area of a Surface of Revolution" calculated?

The "Area of a Surface of Revolution" is calculated using the formula A = 2π∫fdx, where f(x) is the equation of the curve being rotated and the integral is taken over the desired interval. This formula is derived from the methods of calculus, specifically the disk and shell methods.

Can the "Area of a Surface of Revolution" be calculated for any shape?

Yes, the "Area of a Surface of Revolution" can be calculated for any shape that can be formed by rotating a two-dimensional curve around an axis. This includes shapes such as cones, spheres, and even more complex shapes like tori (donuts).

What is the significance of calculating the "Area of a Surface of Revolution"?

Calculating the "Area of a Surface of Revolution" is important in various fields of science and engineering, such as physics, architecture, and manufacturing. It allows us to accurately determine the surface area of curved objects, which is necessary for understanding their properties and designing structures and products.

Are there any real-world applications of the "Area of a Surface of Revolution"?

Yes, there are many real-world applications of the "Area of a Surface of Revolution." For example, architects use this concept to design curved structures, such as domes and arches. In manufacturing, it is used to calculate the surface area of curved objects for the purposes of painting, coating, or packaging. In physics, it is used to determine the surface area of objects that are rotating, such as planets and stars.

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