Solving for $k$: $\pi\int_{-1}^{1} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 6\pi$

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In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the disk method for finding volumes of solids of revolution, using the function $u(x)= \sqrt{x+1}$ as an example. The conversation also covers the use of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus to solve for the constant $k$ in the definite integral, and ultimately concludes that $k=3$.
  • #1
karush
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$u\left(x\right)=\sqrt{x+1}$

$\pi\int_{-1}^{1} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 2\pi$

$\pi\int_{1}^{k} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 6\pi$

I don't know how to get $k$
 
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  • #2
The way I would set this up is:

\(\displaystyle 3\int_{-1}^{1} x+1\,dx=\int_{1}^{k} x+1\,dx\)

After you apply the FTOC, you should be able to solve for $k$. :)
 
  • #3
But aren't we dealing with volume?
 
  • #4
karush said:
But aren't we dealing with volume?

Yes, solids of revolution (disk method), both of which will have $\pi$ as a factor, which we can divide out. :)
 
  • #5
$u\left(x\right)=\sqrt{x+1}$

so
$\pi\int_{1}^{k} u\left(x\right) \,dx = 6\pi$

$\frac{{k}^{2}}{2}+k-\frac{3}{2}=6$

${k}^{2}+2k-15=0$

so
$k=3\ k=-5$
answer is $k=3$
 
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  • #6
Yes, here's my working:

\(\displaystyle 3\int_{-1}^{1} x+1\,dx=\int_{1}^{k} x+1\,dx\)

\(\displaystyle 3\left[\frac{x^2}{2}+x\right]_{-1}^1=\left[\frac{x^2}{2}+x\right]_1^k\)

\(\displaystyle 3\left(\left(\frac{1}{2}+1\right)-\left(\frac{1}{2}-1\right)\right)=\left(\left(\frac{k^2}{2}+k\right)-\left(\frac{1}{2}+1\right)\right)\)

\(\displaystyle 6=\frac{k^2}{2}+k-\frac{3}{2}\)

\(\displaystyle k^2+2k-15=0\)

\(\displaystyle (k-3)(k+5)=0\)

Since we require $1<k$, we conclude that:

\(\displaystyle k=3\).
 

FAQ: Solving for $k$: $\pi\int_{-1}^{1} u\left(x\right)^2 \,dx = 6\pi$

What is the purpose of solving for k in this equation?

The purpose of solving for k in this equation is to determine the value of the constant that will make the equation true. In other words, we are trying to find the value of k that makes the integral equal to 6π.

How do we solve for k in this equation?

To solve for k, we can use algebraic techniques such as isolating k on one side of the equation and simplifying the integral on the other side. This may involve expanding the integral and using basic integration rules to simplify it.

What is the significance of π in this equation?

The presence of π in this equation indicates that the integral is related to circular or spherical shapes. This is because π is a constant that represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.

Can this equation be solved without using calculus?

No, this equation cannot be solved without using calculus. The integral in the equation represents the area under a curve, which is a concept that is only defined in calculus. Therefore, we need to use integration techniques to solve for k.

What are the possible values of k in this equation?

The possible values of k in this equation are infinite, as there are infinite functions that could satisfy the integral. However, we can find a specific value for k by solving the equation and using the given limits of the integral.

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