How to Convert Polar to Rectangular Coordinates in Calculus?

In summary, the conversion formula for polar to rectangular coordinates is x = r * cos(θ) and y = r * sin(θ), using cosine and sine trigonometric functions. This conversion allows for easier visualization and calculation of distances and angles. To plot a point in polar coordinates on a rectangular coordinate system, first convert to rectangular coordinates and then plot the point. Negative angles in polar coordinates can be converted to positive angles in rectangular coordinates, but there may be limitations in accuracy for points close to the origin or with extreme radius values.
  • #1
karush
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$r=3-\cos\left({\theta}\right)$
${r}^{2}=3r-r\cos\left({\theta}\right)$
${x}^{2}+{y}^{2}=3r+x$
How you deal with 3r ?
 
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  • #2
karush said:
$r=3-\cos\left({\theta}\right)$
${r}^{2}=3r-r\cos\left({\theta}\right)$
${x}^{2}+{y}^{2}=3r+x$
How you deal with 3r ?
You have a slight mistake: \(\displaystyle x^2 + y^2 = 3r - x\)

As always \(\displaystyle r = \sqrt{x^2 + y^2}\).

Continuing:
\(\displaystyle x^2 + y^2 = 3 \sqrt{x^2 + y^2} - x\)

\(\displaystyle x^2 + x + y^2 = 3 \sqrt{x^2 + y^2}\)

\(\displaystyle \left ( x^2 + x + y^2 \right ) ^2 = 9(x^2 + y^2)\)

etc.

Yes, it's ugly.

-Dan
 
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  • #3
Funny I had that answer and thot it was wrong, quess intuition is always right?
 

FAQ: How to Convert Polar to Rectangular Coordinates in Calculus?

What is the conversion formula for polar to rectangular coordinates?

The formula for converting polar coordinates (r, θ) to rectangular coordinates (x, y) is x = r * cos(θ) and y = r * sin(θ). This formula uses the trigonometric functions cosine and sine to determine the x and y coordinates.

What is the purpose of converting from polar to rectangular coordinates?

The purpose of converting from polar to rectangular coordinates is to represent a point or location in a 2-dimensional plane using two different coordinate systems. This allows for easier visualization and calculation of distances and angles.

How do you plot a point in polar coordinates on a rectangular coordinate system?

To plot a point given in polar coordinates (r, θ) on a rectangular coordinate system, first use the conversion formula to find the corresponding rectangular coordinates (x, y). Then, plot the point (x, y) on the rectangular coordinate system.

Can you convert a negative angle in polar coordinates to a positive angle in rectangular coordinates?

Yes, you can convert a negative angle in polar coordinates to a positive angle in rectangular coordinates. The negative angle in polar coordinates represents a rotation in the clockwise direction, while the positive angle in rectangular coordinates represents a rotation in the counterclockwise direction.

Are there any limitations to converting from polar to rectangular coordinates?

One limitation of converting from polar to rectangular coordinates is that it only applies to 2-dimensional coordinate systems. Additionally, the conversion may not accurately represent points that are close to the origin or have a very large or small radius value. It is important to consider the context and purpose of the conversion before using it.

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