Math Problem Statement

Convert the following equation into an equation in terms of Cartesian coordinates. 𝑟 = 4 cos 𝜃 + 4 sin �

Solution

The given equation is in polar coordinates:

r=4cosθ+4sinθr = 4 \cos\theta + 4 \sin\theta

To convert it to Cartesian coordinates, recall the relationships between polar and Cartesian coordinates:

x=rcosθ,y=rsinθ,r2=x2+y2x = r \cos\theta, \quad y = r \sin\theta, \quad r^2 = x^2 + y^2

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Multiply through by rr (since r>0r > 0): r2=4rcosθ+4rsinθr^2 = 4r\cos\theta + 4r\sin\theta

  2. Replace r2r^2 with x2+y2x^2 + y^2, rcosθr\cos\theta with xx, and rsinθr\sin\theta with yy: x2+y2=4x+4yx^2 + y^2 = 4x + 4y

  3. Rearrange to standard Cartesian form: x2+y24x4y=0x^2 + y^2 - 4x - 4y = 0

  4. Complete the square for both xx and yy:

    • For x24xx^2 - 4x: Add and subtract (42)2=4\left(\frac{4}{2}\right)^2 = 4
    • For y24yy^2 - 4y: Add and subtract (42)2=4\left(\frac{4}{2}\right)^2 = 4

    (x24x+4)+(y24y+4)=0+4+4(x^2 - 4x + 4) + (y^2 - 4y + 4) = 0 + 4 + 4

  5. Simplify to: (x2)2+(y2)2=8(x - 2)^2 + (y - 2)^2 = 8

Final Answer:

The Cartesian equation is:

(x2)2+(y2)2=8(x - 2)^2 + (y - 2)^2 = 8

This represents a circle with center (2,2)(2, 2) and radius 8=22\sqrt{8} = 2\sqrt{2}.


Would you like to see further details or have any questions? Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. How can you derive the general form of a polar equation in Cartesian coordinates?
  2. What is the geometric meaning of the circle's center and radius in this case?
  3. Can you derive the equation back into polar coordinates?
  4. How does completing the square help in identifying conic sections?
  5. What are the key differences between polar and Cartesian coordinate systems?

Tip: Always verify your conversion by substituting sample points to ensure accuracy!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polar Coordinates
Cartesian Coordinates
Completing the Square

Formulas

x = r cos θ
y = r sin θ
r^2 = x^2 + y^2
Completing the square formula: (a^2 ± 2ab + b^2 = (a ± b)^2)

Theorems

Coordinate Transformation

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12