NICK's question at Yahoo Answers regarding a solid of revolution

In summary, the volume of the solid obtained by rotating the region bounded by the curves y=x, y=0, x=2, and x=4 about the line x=1 is 76π/3, calculated using either the washer or shell method.
  • #1
MarkFL
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Here is the question:

Calculus ii question!?

Using disks or washers, find the volume of the solid obtained by rotating the region bounded by the curves y=x, y=0, x=2, and x=4 about the line x=1.

Volume = ?

Here is a link to the question:

Calculus ii question!? - Yahoo! Answers

I have posted a link there to this topic so the OP can find my response.
 
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  • #2
Hello NICK,

Using washers, we find that we have one interval where the inner radius is a function of $y$, and another in which the inner radius is constant. For both intervals, the outer radius is constant.

Thus, we find the volume is:

\(\displaystyle V=\pi\left(\int_0^2 3^2-1^2\,dy+\int_2^4 3^2-(y-1)^2\,dy \right)=\)

\(\displaystyle \pi\left(\left[8y \right]_0^2+\left[9y-\frac{1}{3}(y-1)^3 \right]_2^4 \right)=\pi\left(16+27-\frac{53}{3} \right)=\frac{76\pi}{3}\)

To check our work, let's use the shell method:

\(\displaystyle V=2\pi\int_2^4(x-1)x\,dx=2\pi\left[\frac{x^3}{3}-\frac{x^2}{2} \right]_2^4=\)

\(\displaystyle 2\pi\left(\frac{40}{3}-\frac{2}{3} \right)=\frac{76\pi}{3}\)
 

FAQ: NICK's question at Yahoo Answers regarding a solid of revolution

What is a solid of revolution?

A solid of revolution is a three-dimensional shape created by rotating a two-dimensional shape around an axis. This axis can be any line passing through the shape, and the resulting solid will have the same cross-sectional shape throughout its length.

How do you find the volume of a solid of revolution?

The volume of a solid of revolution can be calculated using the disk method or the shell method. For the disk method, the volume is equal to the integral of the cross-sectional area of the shape multiplied by the distance along the axis of revolution. For the shell method, the volume is equal to the integral of the circumference of the shape multiplied by the distance along the axis of revolution.

Can any shape be rotated to create a solid of revolution?

Yes, any two-dimensional shape can be rotated to create a solid of revolution. However, the resulting shape may not always be a well-defined or practical solid.

How is a solid of revolution useful in real-life applications?

Solids of revolution have many practical applications, such as in engineering and architecture. For example, a water tower is a solid of revolution created by rotating a cylinder around its central axis. Solids of revolution can also be used to model the human body, such as a head or torso.

Are there any limitations to using solids of revolution in mathematical calculations?

One limitation of using solids of revolution is that the shape must have a clear axis of revolution. In some cases, the shape may need to be split into multiple sections in order to accurately calculate the volume. Additionally, using the disk and shell methods may not always give exact results and may require approximations.

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