Math Problem Statement

Convert each polar equation to rectangular form. (a) r * sin(θ) = -3, (b) r = 4

Solution

To convert polar equations to rectangular form, we use the following identities that relate polar coordinates (r,θ)(r, \theta) to rectangular coordinates (x,y)(x, y):

  1. x=rcosθx = r \cos \theta
  2. y=rsinθy = r \sin \theta
  3. r2=x2+y2r^2 = x^2 + y^2

Now, let's solve each part.

(a) rsinθ=3r \sin \theta = -3

Using the identity y=rsinθy = r \sin \theta, we can rewrite the equation as: y=3y = -3 This is the rectangular form.

(b) r=4r = 4

Using the identity r2=x2+y2r^2 = x^2 + y^2, square both sides of the equation: r2=42=16r^2 = 4^2 = 16 So, the rectangular form is: x2+y2=16x^2 + y^2 = 16 This represents a circle with a radius of 4 centered at the origin.


Would you like more details or clarifications on these steps?

Here are five related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. How do we convert rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates?
  2. What is the general form of a polar equation for a line?
  3. How can you graph the equation x2+y2=16x^2 + y^2 = 16?
  4. What are some common polar-to-rectangular conversions for different curves?
  5. How does the unit circle help in converting between polar and rectangular forms?

Tip: Whenever converting between coordinate systems, it's crucial to remember the core identities that link polar coordinates (r,θr, \theta) to rectangular coordinates (x,yx, y). These identities simplify the transformation process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Polar Coordinates
Rectangular Coordinates
Coordinate Geometry

Formulas

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

Theorems

Relationships between polar and rectangular coordinates

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12