Calculating Area Inside Polar Curve: (-y/2)dx + (x/2)dy

In summary, the formula for calculating the area inside a polar curve is ∫(½y - ½x)dx. The limits of integration can be determined by finding the points of intersection between the curve and the x-axis. The area inside a polar curve cannot be negative due to the absolute value of the integrand. Calculators can be used to find the area inside a polar curve, as many have a built-in integration function. The relationship between the area inside a polar curve and the Cartesian area is equivalent, meaning the same curve will have the same area expressed in both polar and Cartesian coordinates.
  • #1
Tonyt88
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Homework Statement



Using the integral of (-y/2)dx + (x/2)dy
Calculate the area inside the limacon with polar equation:

r = 5 - 3sin(theta)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



No idea where to begin.
 
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  • #2
notice that the divergence of the vector field that you are integrating over is 1. So, if you integrate 1 over the region of the limaçon, what can that integral be transformed into?
 
  • #3
I think I've got it:

x = r cos(theta)
y = r sin(theta)

Solve for dx/d(theta) and dy(theta)

Integrate from 0 to 2(pi) and that should go well? :)
 

FAQ: Calculating Area Inside Polar Curve: (-y/2)dx + (x/2)dy

What is the formula for calculating the area inside a polar curve?

The formula for calculating the area inside a polar curve is ∫(½y - ½x)dx.

How do you determine the limits of integration for a polar curve?

The limits of integration for a polar curve can be determined by finding the points of intersection between the curve and the x-axis. These points will serve as the lower and upper limits for the integral.

Can the area inside a polar curve be negative?

No, the area inside a polar curve cannot be negative. Since the formula for calculating the area takes the absolute value of the integrand, the resulting area will always be positive.

Is it possible to use a calculator to find the area inside a polar curve?

Yes, it is possible to use a calculator to find the area inside a polar curve. Many graphing calculators have a built-in integration function that can be used to find the area under a curve.

What is the relationship between the area inside a polar curve and the Cartesian area?

The area inside a polar curve and the Cartesian area are equivalent. This means that the same curve in polar coordinates will have the same area as the curve expressed in Cartesian coordinates, and vice versa.

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