Choosing the Right Variable for Radius of Shell in Cylindrical Shell Method

In summary, when finding volume using the cylindrical shell method, you will need to draw a picture of the region and visualize the shells around it. The formula for volume is 2*pi*(radius of shell)*(length of shell)*d(radius of shell). When revolving around the x-axis, the variable x is a good choice for the radius of the shell.
  • #1
Jon1436
8
0
Im new to finding volume using the cylindicral shell method so what should i do. I know I will eventually plug equations into the integral 2piX(f(x)-g(x))dx

x=y x+2y=3 and y=0 revolve about the x axis
 
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  • #2
Draw a picture of the region. Now visualize what the shells are going to look like around the region. Then take your formula and think of it as 2*pi*(radius of shell)*(length of shell)*d(radius of shell). If you are rotating around the x-axis, which variable is a good choice for radius of shell. x or y?
 

FAQ: Choosing the Right Variable for Radius of Shell in Cylindrical Shell Method

What is the Cylindrical Shell Method?

The Cylindrical Shell Method is a mathematical technique used to find the volume of a solid of revolution by breaking it down into thin cylindrical shells and integrating their volumes.

When is the Cylindrical Shell Method used?

The Cylindrical Shell Method is typically used when the solid of revolution has a curved boundary that is best represented by an equation in cylindrical coordinates.

What is the formula for the Cylindrical Shell Method?

The formula for the Cylindrical Shell Method is V = 2π∫(x)(height)(thickness) dx, where x represents the distance from the axis of revolution, height is the height of the shell, and thickness is the thickness of the shell.

What is the difference between the Cylindrical Shell Method and the Disk Method?

The main difference between the Cylindrical Shell Method and the Disk Method is the shape of the cross-sections used to calculate the volume. The Cylindrical Shell Method uses cylindrical shells while the Disk Method uses disks or washers.

What are the limitations of the Cylindrical Shell Method?

The Cylindrical Shell Method is limited to finding the volume of solids of revolution, meaning that the solid must have a circular or curved cross-section. It also requires an understanding of cylindrical coordinates and integration, making it more complex than other methods.

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