Math Problem Statement

Rewrite the polar equation r=6cos(θ) as a Cartesian equation.

  

Solution

To rewrite the polar equation r=6cos(θ)r = 6\cos(\theta) as a Cartesian equation, we use the relationships between polar and Cartesian coordinates:

  1. x=rcos(θ)x = r\cos(\theta)
  2. y=rsin(θ)y = r\sin(\theta)
  3. r2=x2+y2r^2 = x^2 + y^2

Step-by-step Process:

  1. Multiply both sides of the polar equation r=6cos(θ)r = 6\cos(\theta) by rr: r2=6rcos(θ)r^2 = 6r\cos(\theta)

  2. Substitute r2=x2+y2r^2 = x^2 + y^2 and rcos(θ)=xr\cos(\theta) = x: x2+y2=6xx^2 + y^2 = 6x

  3. Rearrange the equation into standard form: x2+y26x=0x^2 + y^2 - 6x = 0

  4. Complete the square for the xx-terms: x26xcan be written as(x3)29.x^2 - 6x \quad \text{can be written as} \quad (x - 3)^2 - 9. So, the equation becomes: (x3)29+y2=0(x - 3)^2 - 9 + y^2 = 0

  5. Simplify: (x3)2+y2=9(x - 3)^2 + y^2 = 9

Final Cartesian Equation:

(x3)2+y2=9(x - 3)^2 + y^2 = 9

This represents a circle with center at (3,0)(3, 0) and radius 33.


Do you want a detailed explanation of any step?
Here are related questions:

  1. How do you complete the square in a quadratic equation?
  2. What is the geometric interpretation of the equation (x3)2+y2=9(x - 3)^2 + y^2 = 9?
  3. How do the polar-to-Cartesian transformations work in general?
  4. How do you find the radius and center of a circle from its equation?
  5. Can this equation represent anything other than a circle in certain conditions?

Tip: Remember that completing the square is a key skill for converting quadratic equations into standard forms!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polar to Cartesian Conversion
Equations of Circles
Algebraic Manipulation

Formulas

x = r*cos(θ)
y = r*sin(θ)
r^2 = x^2 + y^2

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem (used in r^2 = x^2 + y^2)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12