Math Problem Statement

Find an equation in cylindrical coordinates for the surface represented by the rectangular equation x^2 + y^2 + z^2 - 4z = 0.

Solution

To convert the given equation x2+y2+z24z=0x^2 + y^2 + z^2 - 4z = 0 into cylindrical coordinates, we use the following relationships between rectangular and cylindrical coordinates:

  1. x=rcosθx = r \cos\theta
  2. y=rsinθy = r \sin\theta
  3. x2+y2=r2x^2 + y^2 = r^2
  4. z=zz = z (remains unchanged in cylindrical coordinates).

Substituting into the equation:

The given equation is: x2+y2+z24z=0x^2 + y^2 + z^2 - 4z = 0 Substitute x2+y2=r2x^2 + y^2 = r^2: r2+z24z=0r^2 + z^2 - 4z = 0

Simplify further:

Combine terms involving zz: r2+(z24z)=0r^2 + (z^2 - 4z) = 0 Complete the square for the zz-terms: z24z=(z2)24z^2 - 4z = (z - 2)^2 - 4 Substitute this back into the equation: r2+(z2)24=0r^2 + (z - 2)^2 - 4 = 0 Simplify: r2+(z2)2=4r^2 + (z - 2)^2 = 4

Final equation in cylindrical coordinates:

The equation in cylindrical coordinates is: r2+(z2)2=4r^2 + (z - 2)^2 = 4

This represents a cylinder centered along the axis z=2z = 2 with a radius of 2.


Do you want further clarification or details? Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the geometric interpretation of the final equation in cylindrical coordinates?
  2. How do you derive cylindrical coordinates transformations in general?
  3. Can you convert this equation into spherical coordinates as well?
  4. How does the equation change if the cylinder is rotated in space?
  5. How would you graph this equation in a 3D coordinate system?

Tip: When completing the square, always double-check your signs and constants for accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Coordinate Conversion
Cylindrical Coordinates
Completing the Square
Surface Equations

Formulas

x^2 + y^2 = r^2 (conversion to cylindrical coordinates)
(z - a)^2 for completing the square

Theorems

Cylindrical Coordinate Transformation

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate (College-Level)