Calculus Help - Polar Coordinated

In summary, the slope of a polar graph at the point (f(delta),delta) is given by f'(x)*sin(x) + f(x)*cos(x) / f'(x)*cos(x) - f(x)*sin(x). To determine points where the curve crosses the x-axis, set r=0 and solve for theta.
  • #1
Twoacross
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Homework Statement



1. Consider the graph of a function defined parametrically by x = g(t) and y = h(t). The
slope of the curve at point (g(t), h(t)) is given by h′(t)
g′(t) . Use this result and the standard
parametrization of a polar curve r = f(delta) given above to show that the slope of a polar
graph at the point (f(delta),delta ) is given by:

f′(x)*sin(x) + f(x)*cos(x)
f′(x)*cos(x) − f(x)*sin(x)
.
In the lab, a polar curve will be given as the graph of the function r = f(delta) in polar
coordinates. You will need to be able to match points on the curve with their corresponding
values of  in the interval [a, b]. For example, points in the first quadrant will corresond to
values of  in the interval [0, /2] when f() is positive on this interval.
2. What condition on r will force points in the first quadrant to correspond to values of delta
between Pi and 3Pi / 2 ? Explain.
3. Given a polar graph of a function r = f(delta), how can you determine which values of 
correspond to points (f(delta),delta ) where the curve crosses the x -axis?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I had done a question like this but it did not involve sin so i tried using identities and from there, i was stumped. I've attached my assignment to this post, its the first three questions, the rest is using maple. All help is appreciated, I am still trying to make sense of it

Thank you!
 

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  • #2
In terms of the functions x and y, slope=y'/x'

[tex]y'(\theta)=f(\theta)*Cos(\theta)+f'(\theta)*Sin(\theta)[/tex]
[tex]x'(\theta)=-f(\theta)*Sin(\theta)+f'(\theta)*Cos(\theta)[/tex]

Divide y' by x', switching the order of terms in x', and you have the given expression for slope.
 

FAQ: Calculus Help - Polar Coordinated

What is the purpose of polar coordinates in calculus?

Polar coordinates are used in calculus to express the position of a point in a plane using distance and angle from a fixed point. This allows for a more efficient and accurate way to represent and calculate complex curves and shapes.

How do you convert polar coordinates to Cartesian coordinates?

To convert polar coordinates (r, θ) to Cartesian coordinates (x, y), use the following formulas:
x = r cos(θ)
y = r sin(θ)
Where r represents the distance from the origin and θ represents the angle from the positive x-axis.

What is the difference between polar and rectangular coordinates?

The main difference between polar and rectangular coordinates is the way in which they represent points in a plane. Rectangular coordinates use x and y values to represent the position of a point, while polar coordinates use distance and angle from a fixed point.

How do you graph polar equations?

To graph polar equations, first convert the equation to Cartesian coordinates using the conversion formulas. Then, plot points on the Cartesian plane and connect them to form the graph. It is also helpful to plot key points and use symmetry to accurately graph the equation.

Can polar coordinates be used in 3-dimensional space?

Yes, polar coordinates can be extended to 3-dimensional space by adding a third coordinate, z, to represent the height of a point above or below the xy-plane. This is known as cylindrical coordinates and is commonly used in calculus and physics.

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