Skip to main content
Logo image

APEX Calculus: for University of Lethbridge

Gregory Hartman, Ph.D., Sean Fitzpatrick, Ph.D. (Editor), Alex Jordan, Ph.D. (Editor), Carly Vollet, M.S. (Editor)

Section 10.5 Calculus and Polar Functions

Figure 10.5.1. Video introduction to Section 10.5
The previous section defined polar coordinates, leading to polar functions. We investigated plotting these functions and solving a fundamental question about their graphs, namely, where do two polar graphs intersect?
We now turn our attention to answering other questions, whose solutions require the use of calculus. A basis for much of what is done in this section is the ability to turn a polar function \(r=f(\theta)\) into a set of parametric equations. Using the identities \(x=r\cos(\theta)\) and \(y=r\sin(\theta)\text{,}\) we can create the parametric equations \(x=f(\theta)\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) \(y=f(\theta)\sin(\theta)\) and apply the concepts of Section 10.3.

Subsection 10.5.1 Polar Functions and \(dy/dx\)

We are interested in the lines tangent to a given graph, regardless of whether that graph is produced by rectangular, parametric, or polar equations. In each of these contexts, the slope of the tangent line is \(\frac{dy}{dx}\text{.}\) Given \(r=f(\theta)\text{,}\) we are generally not concerned with \(r\,'=\fp(\theta)\text{;}\) that describes how fast \(r\) changes with respect to \(\theta\text{.}\) Instead, we will use \(x=f(\theta)\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) \(y=f(\theta)\sin(\theta)\) to compute \(\frac{dy}{dx}\text{.}\)
Using Key Idea 10.3.2 we have
\begin{equation*} \frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{dy}{d\theta}\Big/\frac{dx}{d\theta}\text{.} \end{equation*}
Each of the two derivatives on the right hand side of the equality requires the use of the Product Rule. We state the important result as a Key Idea.

Key Idea 10.5.2. Finding \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) with Polar Functions.

Let \(r=f(\theta)\) be a polar function. With \(x=f(\theta)\cos(\theta)\) and \(y=f(\theta)\sin(\theta)\text{,}\)
\begin{equation*} \frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{\fp(\theta)\sin(\theta) +f(\theta)\cos(\theta) }{\fp(\theta)\cos(\theta) -f(\theta)\sin(\theta) }\text{.} \end{equation*}

Example 10.5.3. Finding \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) with polar functions.

Consider the limaçon \(r=1+2\sin(\theta)\) on \([0,2\pi]\text{.}\)
  1. Find the equations of the tangent and normal lines to the graph at \(\theta=\pi/4\text{.}\)
  2. Find where the graph has vertical and horizontal tangent lines.
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
  1. We start by computing \(\frac{dy}{dx}\text{.}\) With \(\fp(\theta) = 2\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) we have
    \begin{align*} \frac{dy}{dx} \amp = \frac{2\cos(\theta) \sin(\theta) + \cos(\theta) (1+2\sin(\theta) )}{2\cos^2(\theta) -\sin(\theta) (1+2\sin(\theta) )}\\ \amp = \frac{\cos(\theta) (4\sin(\theta) +1)}{2(\cos^2(\theta) -\sin^2(\theta) )-\sin(\theta) }\text{.} \end{align*}
    When \(\theta=\pi/4\text{,}\) \(\frac{dy}{dx}=-2\sqrt{2}-1\) (this requires a bit of simplification). In rectangular coordinates, the point on the graph at \(\theta=\pi/4\) is \((1+\sqrt{2}/2,1+\sqrt{2}/2)\text{.}\) Thus the rectangular equation of the line tangent to the limaçon at \(\theta=\pi/4\) is
    \begin{equation*} y=(-2\sqrt{2}-1)\big(x-(1+\sqrt{2}/2)\big)+1+\sqrt{2}/2 \approx -3.83 x+8.24\text{.} \end{equation*}
    The limaçon and the tangent line are graphed in Figure 10.5.4. The normal line has the opposite-reciprocal slope as the tangent line, so its equation is
    \begin{equation*} y \approx \frac{1}{3.83}x+1.26\text{.} \end{equation*}
    A limaçon with an inner loops, symmetric about the y axis, and a tangent line.
    The curve is a limaçon with an inner loop. It is symmetric about the \(y\) axis, with intercepts on the positive \(y\) axis. There are several marked points on the curve, indicating the location of horizontal and vertical tangent lines.
    Points marking horizontal tangent lines are at the top of both loops, at the points \((0,3)\) (outer loop) and \((0,1)\) (inner loop). There are also two points marking horizontal tangent lines at the bottom of the outer loop; these lie below the \(x\) axis, on either side of the \(y\) axis.
    There are also four points marking vertical tangent lines. These are on the left and right “sides” of each loop.
    Just above the point where the vertical tangent on the right side of the outer loop is marked, a tangent line to the curve is drawn. The tangent line has a relatively large negative slope.
    Figure 10.5.4. The limaçon in Example 10.5.3 with its tangent line at \(\theta=\pi/4\) and points of vertical and horizontal tangency
  2. To find the horizontal lines of tangency, we find where \(\frac{dy}{dx}=0\text{;}\) thus we find where the numerator of our equation for \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) is 0.
    \begin{equation*} \cos(\theta) (4\sin(\theta) +1)=0 \Rightarrow \cos(\theta) =0 \text{ or } 4\sin(\theta) +1=0\text{.} \end{equation*}
    On \([0,2\pi]\text{,}\) \(\cos(\theta) =0\) when \(\theta=\pi/2,\,3\pi/2\text{.}\) Setting \(4\sin(\theta) +1=0\) gives \(\theta=\sin^{-1}(-1/4)\approx -0.2527 = -14.48^\circ\text{.}\) We want the results in \([0,2\pi]\text{;}\) we also recognize there are two solutions, one in the third quadrant and one in the fourth. Using reference angles, we have our two solutions as \(\theta =3.39\) and \(6.03\) radians. The four points we obtained where the limaçon has a horizontal tangent line are given in Figure 10.5.4 with black-filled dots. To find the vertical lines of tangency, we set the denominator of \(\frac{dy}{dx}=0\text{.}\)
    \begin{align*} 2(\cos^2(\theta) -\sin^2(\theta) )-\sin(\theta) \amp = 0 .\\ \end{align*}

    Convert the \(\cos^2(\theta)\) term to \(1-\sin^2(\theta)\text{:}\)

    \begin{align*} 2(1-\sin^2(\theta) -\sin^2(\theta) )-\sin(\theta) \amp = 0\\ 4\sin^2(\theta) + \sin(\theta) -2 \amp = 0.\\ \end{align*}

    Recognize this as a quadratic in the variable \(\sin(\theta)\text{.}\) Using the quadratic formula, we have

    \begin{align*} \sin(\theta) \amp = \frac{-1\pm\sqrt{33}}{8}\text{.} \end{align*}
    We solve \(\sin(\theta) = \frac{-1+\sqrt{33}}8\) and \(\sin(\theta) = \frac{-1-\sqrt{33}}8\text{:}\)
    \begin{align*} \sin(\theta) \amp =\frac{-1+\sqrt{33}}8 \amp \sin(\theta) \amp = \frac{-1-\sqrt{33}}{8}\\ \theta \amp = \sin^{-1}\left(\frac{-1+\sqrt{33}}8\right) \amp \theta \amp = \sin^{-1}\left(\frac{-1-\sqrt{33}}8\right)\\ \theta \amp = 0.6349 \amp \theta \amp = -1.0030 \end{align*}
    In each of the solutions above, we only get one of the possible two solutions as \(\sin^{-1}(x)\) only returns solutions in \([-\pi/2,\pi/2]\text{,}\) the \(4\)th and \(1\)st quadrants. Again using reference angles, we have:
    \begin{equation*} \sin\theta = \frac{-1+\sqrt{33}}8 \Rightarrow \theta = 0.6349,\,2.5067 \text{ radians } \end{equation*}
    and
    \begin{equation*} \sin(\theta) = \frac{-1-\sqrt{33}}8 \Rightarrow \theta = 4.1446,\,5.2802 \text{ radians. } \end{equation*}
    These points are also shown in Figure 10.5.4 with white-filled dots.
When the graph of the polar function \(r=f(\theta)\) intersects the pole, it means that \(f(\alpha)=0\) for some angle \(\alpha\text{.}\) Thus the formula for \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) in such instances is very simple, reducing simply to
\begin{equation*} \frac{dy}{dx} = \tan\alpha\text{.} \end{equation*}
This equation makes an interesting point. It tells us the slope of the tangent line at the pole is \(\tan\alpha\text{;}\) some of our previous work (see, for instance, Example 10.4.9) shows us that the line through the pole with slope \(\tan\alpha\) has polar equation \(\theta=\alpha\text{.}\) Thus when a polar graph touches the pole at \(\theta=\alpha\text{,}\) the equation of the tangent line at the pole is \(\theta=\alpha\text{.}\)

Example 10.5.5. Finding tangent lines at the pole.

Let \(r=1+2\sin(\theta)\text{,}\) a limaçon. Find the equations of the lines tangent to the graph at the pole.
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
We need to know when \(r=0\text{.}\)
\begin{align*} 1+2\sin(\theta) \amp = 0\\ \sin(\theta) \amp = -1/2\\ \theta \amp = \frac{7\pi}{6},\,\frac{11\pi}6\text{.} \end{align*}
Thus the equations of the tangent lines, in polar, are \(\theta = 7\pi/6\) and \(\theta = 11\pi/6\text{.}\) In rectangular form, the tangent lines are \(y=\tan(7\pi/6)x\) and \(y=\tan(11\pi/6)x\text{.}\) The full limaçon can be seen in Figure 10.5.4; we zoom in on the tangent lines in Figure 10.5.6.
A zoomed in view of a limaçon near the origin, and two tangent lines at that point.
The curve is the same limaçon as in Figure 10.5.4, but zoomed in near the origin. The origin is a point of self-intersection for the curve, and there are two tangent lines: one for the first time the curve passes through the origin, and one for the second.
The two lines together make an X shape at the origin. Due to the symmetry of the curve, one tangent line has positive slope, and the other has a negative slope of the same absolute value.
Figure 10.5.6. Graphing the tangent lines at the pole in Example 10.5.5

Subsection 10.5.2 Area

When using rectangular coordinates, the equations \(x=h\) and \(y=k\) defined vertical and horizontal lines, respectively, and combinations of these lines create rectangles (hence the name “rectangular coordinates”). It is then somewhat natural to use rectangles to approximate area as we did when learning about the definite integral.
When using polar coordinates, the equations \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(r=c\) form lines through the origin and circles centered at the origin, respectively, and combinations of these curves form sectors of circles. It is then somewhat natural to calculate the area of regions defined by polar functions by first approximating with sectors of circles.
Consider Figure 10.5.7.(a) where a region defined by \(r=f(\theta)\) on \([\alpha,\beta]\) is given. (Note how the “sides” of the region are the lines \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\text{,}\) whereas in rectangular coordinates the “sides” of regions were often the vertical lines \(x=a\) and \(x=b\text{.}\))
Partition the interval \([\alpha,\beta]\) into \(n\) equally spaced subintervals as \(\alpha = \theta_0 \lt \theta_1 \lt \cdots \lt \theta_{n}=\beta\text{.}\) The length of each subinterval is \(\Delta\theta = (\beta-\alpha)/n\text{,}\) representing a small change in angle. The area of the region defined by the \(i\)th subinterval \([\theta_{i-1},\theta_{i}]\) can be approximated with a sector of a circle with radius \(f(c_i)\text{,}\) for some \(c_i\) in \([\theta_{i-1},\theta_{i}]\text{.}\) The area of this sector is \(\frac12f(c_i)^2\Delta\theta\text{.}\) This is shown in Figure 10.5.7.(b), where \([\alpha,\beta]\) has been divided into 4 subintervals. We approximate the area of the whole region by summing the areas of all sectors:
\begin{equation*} \text{ Area } \approx \sum_{i=1}^n \frac12f(c_i)^2\Delta\theta\text{.} \end{equation*}
This is a Riemann sum. By taking the limit of the sum as \(n\to\infty\text{,}\) we find the exact area of the region in the form of a definite integral.
Plot of a generic polar function and the area it encloses between two angles.
The plot of some unknown polar curve \(r=f(\theta)\) is shown. The curve lies entirely in the first quadrant, and has a somewhat wavy shape, although the particular shape of the curve is unimportant.
Two rays labeled \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\) are drawn, and the area bounded by the two rays and the polar curve is shaded. Several rays corresponding to angles between \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) are also shown as dashed lines.
(a)
Plot of a region bounded by a polar curve, and its approximation by cicular wedges.
A curve \(r=f(\theta)\) is shown; it is the same curve as Figure 10.5.7.(a). The rays \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\) are also shown, as well as the shaded region bounded by these rays and the polar curve.
Overlaid on the shaded region are four circular wedges. The angle between \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\) is divided into four smaller angles; these correspond to the rays shown as dashed lines in Figure 10.5.7.(a). Each wedge is a sector of a circle that spans one of these angles, with radius corresponding some the value of \(f(\theta)\text{.}\)
Overall, the image illustrates the fact that the area bounded by the polar curve and the two rays is approximated by the sum of the areas of the four circular wedges.
(b)
Figure 10.5.7. Computing the area of a polar region
Figure 10.5.8. Video presentation of Theorem 10.5.9
The theorem states that \(0\leq \beta-\alpha\leq 2\pi\text{.}\) This ensures that region does not overlap itself, which would give a result that does not correspond directly to the area.

Example 10.5.10. Area of a polar region.

Find the area of the circle defined by \(r=\cos(\theta)\text{.}\) (Recall this circle has radius \(1/2\text{.}\))
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
This is a direct application of Theorem 10.5.9. The circle is traced out on \([0,\pi]\text{,}\) leading to the integral
\begin{align*} \text{ Area } \amp = \frac12\int_0^\pi \cos^2(\theta)\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac12\int_0^\pi \frac{1+\cos(2\theta)}{2}\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac14\big(\theta +\frac12\sin(2\theta)\big)\Bigg|_0^\pi\\ \amp = \frac14\pi\text{.} \end{align*}
Of course, we already knew the area of a circle with radius \(1/2\text{.}\) We did this example to demonstrate that the area formula is correct.

Example 10.5.11. Area of a polar region.

Find the area of the cardioid \(r=1+\cos(\theta)\) bound between \(\theta=\pi/6\) and \(\theta=\pi/3\text{,}\) as shown in Figure 10.5.12.
A cardioid curve, within which is a shaded region bounded by the curve and two rays.
The polar curve \(r=1+\cos(\theta)\) is a cardioid that is symmetric about the \(x\) axis, with a cusp at the origin, and second \(x\) intercept at \((2,0)\text{.}\)
The rays \(\theta=\pi/6\) and \(\theta=\pi/3\) are drawn from the origin to where they meet the cardioid. The region bounded by the cardioid and the two rays is shaded.
Figure 10.5.12. Finding the area of the shaded region of a cardioid in Example 10.5.11
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
This is again a direct application of Theorem 10.5.9.
\begin{align*} \text{ Area } \amp = \frac12\int_{\pi/6}^{\pi/3} (1+\cos(\theta) )^2\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac12\int_{\pi/6}^{\pi/3} (1+2\cos(\theta) +\cos^2(\theta) )\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac12\left(\theta+2\sin(\theta) +\frac12\theta+\frac14\sin(2\theta)\right)\Bigg|_{\pi/6}^{\pi/3}\\ \amp = \frac18\big(\pi+4\sqrt{3}-4\big) \approx 0.7587\text{.} \end{align*}

Area Between Curves.

Our study of area in the context of rectangular functions led naturally to finding area bounded between curves. We consider the same in the context of polar functions.
Consider the shaded region shown in Figure 10.5.13. We can find the area of this region by computing the area bounded by \(r_2=f_2(\theta)\) and subtracting the area bounded by \(r_1=f_1(\theta)\) on \([\alpha,\beta]\text{.}\) Thus
\begin{equation*} \text{ Area } \,= \,\frac12\int_\alpha^\beta r_2^{\,2}\, d\theta - \frac12\int_\alpha^\beta r_1^{\,2}\, d\theta = \frac12\int_\alpha^\beta \big(r_2^{\,2}-r_1^{\,2}\big)\, d\theta\text{.} \end{equation*}
Illustration of a region bounded by two polar curves and two rays.
Polar curves \(r=f_1(\theta)\) and \(r=f_2(\theta)\) are drawn in the first quadrant. The functions are not specified, but the curves are intended to appear as generic polar curves: both begin on the positive \(x\) axis and end on the positive \(y\) axis, and both are somewhat wavy, with a value of \(r\) that oscillates on the interval \([0,\pi/2]\text{.}\)
The curve \(r=f_1(\theta)\) lies closer to the origin than \(r=f_2(\theta)\) at all points. Two rays \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\) are shown. The region bounded by the two rays and the two polar curves is shaded. (The region corresponds to \(\alpha\leq\theta\leq \beta\) and \(f_1(\theta)\leq r\leq f_2(\theta)\text{.}\))
Figure 10.5.13. Illustrating area bound between two polar curves
Key Idea 10.5.14. Area Between Polar Curves.
The area \(A\) of the region bounded by \(r_1=f_1(\theta)\) and \(r_2=f_2(\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta=\alpha\) and \(\theta=\beta\text{,}\) where \(f_1(\theta)\leq f_2(\theta)\) on \([\alpha,\beta]\text{,}\) is
\begin{equation*} A = \frac12\int_\alpha^\beta \big(r_2^{\,2}-r_1^{\,2}\big)\, d\theta\text{.} \end{equation*}
Example 10.5.15. Area between polar curves.
Find the area bounded between the curves \(r=1+\cos(\theta)\) and \(r=3\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) as shown in Figure 10.5.16.
A circle and a cardioid enclose a region that is inside the circle but outside the cardioid.
Two polar curves are plotted. The first is a circle with center at \((3/2,0)\) and radius \(3/2\text{.}\) (The circle intercepts the \(x\) axis at \((0,0)\) and \((3,0)\) and is symmetric about the \(x\) axis.) The second curve is a cardioid; it is symmetric about the \(x\) axis, with its cusp at the origin, and a second \(x\) intercept at \((2,0)\text{.}\)
The two curves intersect at two points on opposite sides of the \(x\) axis. The cardioid covers up a significant portion of the circle, for \(x\) between \(0\) and \(2\text{.}\) The portion of the circle that is not covered by the cardioid is shaded. This is the region that lies outside of the cardioid, but inside the circle. It has a shape similar to that of a crescent moon.
Figure 10.5.16. Finding the area between polar curves in Example 10.5.15
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
We need to find the points of intersection between these two functions. Setting them equal to each other, we find:
\begin{align*} 1+\cos(\theta) \amp = 3\cos(\theta)\\ \cos(\theta) \amp =1/2\\ \theta \amp = \pm \pi/3 \end{align*}
Thus we integrate \(\frac12\big((3\cos(\theta) )^2-(1+\cos(\theta) )^2\big)\) on \([-\pi/3,\pi/3]\text{.}\)
\begin{align*} \text{ Area } \amp = \frac12\int_{-\pi/3}^{\pi/3} \big((3\cos(\theta) )^2-(1+\cos(\theta) )^2\big)\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac12\int_{-\pi/3}^{\pi/3} \big( 8\cos^2(\theta) -2\cos(\theta) -1\big)\, d\theta\\ \amp = \frac12\big(2\sin(2\theta) - 2\sin(\theta) +3\theta\big)\Bigg|_{-\pi/3}^{\pi/3}\\ \amp = \pi\text{.} \end{align*}
Amazingly enough, the area between these curves has a “nice” value.
Example 10.5.17. Area defined by polar curves.
Find the area bounded between the polar curves \(r=1\) and \(r=2\cos(2\theta)\text{,}\) as shown in Figure 10.5.18.
A zoomed in view of a region bounded by a circle, a rose curve, and the x axis.
Two polar curves are plotted: a four-leaf rose curve, and a the unit circle. The image is zoomed in to give a better view of the region whose area is being computed in this example. One leaf of the rose curve is along the positive \(x\) axis. It intersects the unit circle at a point in the first quadrant.
A shaded region is also shown. The region is bounded below by the \(x\) axis. To the left of the point where the rose curve intersects the circle, the region is bounded above by the rose curve. To the right of this point, until the circle meets the \(x\) axis at \((1,0)\text{,}\) the region is bounded between the \(x\) axis and the circle.
Figure 10.5.18. The region bounded by the functions in Example 10.5.17
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
We need to find the point of intersection between the two curves. Setting the two functions equal to each other, we have
\begin{equation*} 2\cos(2\theta) = 1 \Rightarrow \cos(2\theta) = \frac12 \Rightarrow 2\theta = \pi/3 \Rightarrow \theta=\pi/6\text{.} \end{equation*}
A zoomed in view of a polar region, showing it divided into two parts.
The region in Figure 10.5.18 is shown again, but zoomed in even further. The point at which the rose curve intersects the circle is found to have polar coordinates \((1,\pi/6)\text{.}\) The ray \(\theta=\pi/6\) is shown as a dashed line; it divides the region into two parts.
The first part corresponds to \(0\leq \theta\leq \pi/6\text{;}\) it is the part of the region that lies below the ray \(\theta=\pi/6\text{.}\) It is bounded by the \(x\) axis, the unit circle, and the ray \(\theta=\pi/6\text{.}\) The second part of the region lies above the ray \(\theta=\pi/6\text{,}\) corresponding to angles \(\pi/6\leq \theta\leq \pi/4\text{.}\) This part of the region lies between the rose curve and the ray \(\theta=\pi/6\text{.}\)
Figure 10.5.19. Breaking the region bounded by the functions in Example 10.5.17 into its component parts
In Figure 10.5.19, we zoom in on the region and note that it is not really bounded between two polar curves, but rather by two polar curves, along with \(\theta=0\text{.}\) The dashed line breaks the region into its component parts. Below the dashed line, the region is defined by \(r=1\text{,}\) \(\theta=0\) and \(\theta = \pi/6\text{.}\) (Note: the dashed line lies on the line \(\theta=\pi/6\text{.}\)) Above the dashed line the region is bounded by \(r=2\cos(2\theta)\) and \(\theta =\pi/6\text{.}\) Since we have two separate regions, we find the area using two separate integrals.
Call the area below the dashed line \(A_1\) and the area above the dashed line \(A_2\text{.}\) They are determined by the following integrals:
\begin{equation*} A_1 = \frac12\int_0^{\pi/6} (1)^2\, d\theta\qquad A_2 = \frac12\int_{\pi/6}^{\pi/4} \big(2\cos(2\theta)\big)^2\, d\theta\text{.} \end{equation*}
(The upper bound of the integral computing \(A_2\) is \(\pi/4\) as \(r=2\cos(2\theta)\) is at the pole when \(\theta=\pi/4\text{.}\))
We omit the integration details and let the reader verify that \(A_1 = \pi/12\) and \(A_2 = \pi/12-\sqrt{3}/8\text{;}\) the total area is \(A = \pi/6-\sqrt{3}/8\text{.}\)

Subsection 10.5.3 Arc Length

As we have already considered the arc length of curves defined by rectangular and parametric equations, we now consider it in the context of polar equations. Recall that the arc length \(L\) of the graph defined by the parametric equations \(x=f(t)\text{,}\) \(y=g(t)\) on \([a,b]\) is
\begin{equation} L = \int_a^b \sqrt{\fp(t)^2 + g'(t)^2}\, dt = \int_a^b \sqrt{x'(t)^2+y'(t)^2}\, dt\text{.}\tag{10.5.1} \end{equation}
Now consider the polar function \(r=f(\theta)\text{.}\) We again use the identities \(x=f(\theta)\cos(\theta)\) and \(y=f(\theta)\sin(\theta)\) to create parametric equations based on the polar function. We compute \(x'(\theta)\) and \(y'(\theta)\) as done before when computing \(\frac{dy}{dx}\text{,}\) then apply Equation (10.5.1).
The expression \(x'(\theta)^2+y'(\theta)^2\) can be simplified a great deal; we leave this as an exercise and state that
\begin{equation*} x'(\theta)^2+y'(\theta)^2 = \fp(\theta)^2+f(\theta)^2\text{.} \end{equation*}
This leads us to the arc length formula.

Example 10.5.21. Arc length of a limaçon.

Find the arc length of the limaçon \(r=1+2\sin(\theta)\text{.}\)
Solution 1. Video solution
Solution 2.
With \(r=1+2\sin(\theta)\text{,}\) we have \(r\,' = 2\cos(\theta)\text{.}\) The limaçon is traced out once on \([0,2\pi]\text{,}\) giving us our bounds of integration. Applying Theorem 10.5.20, we have
\begin{align*} L \amp = \int_0^{2\pi} \sqrt{(2\cos\theta)^2+(1+2\sin\theta)^2}\, d\theta\\ \amp = \int_0^{2\pi} \sqrt{4\cos^2\theta+4\sin^2\theta +4\sin\theta+1}\, d\theta\\ \amp = \int_0^{2\pi} \sqrt{4\sin\theta+5}\, d\theta\\ \amp \approx 13.3649\text{.} \end{align*}
A limaçon with an inner loop that is symmetric about the y axis.
The limaçon \(r=1+2\sin(\theta)\) has an inner loop, and is symmetric about the \(y\) axis. The point of self-intersection is at the origin; the inner loop meets the \(y\) axis again at \((0,1)\text{,}\) and the outer loop meets the \(y\) axis again at \((0,3)\text{.}\)
Figure 10.5.22. The limaçon in Example 10.5.21 whose arc length is measured
The final integral cannot be solved in terms of elementary functions, so we resorted to a numerical approximation. (Simpson’s Rule, with \(n=4\text{,}\) approximates the value with \(13.0608\text{.}\) Using \(n=22\) gives the value above, which is accurate to 4 places after the decimal.)

Subsection 10.5.4 Surface Area

The formula for arc length leads us to a formula for surface area. The following Theorem is based on Theorem 10.3.21.

Example 10.5.24. Surface area determined by a polar curve.

Find the surface area formed by revolving one petal of the rose curve \(r=\cos(2\theta)\) about its central axis, as shown in Figure 10.5.25.
A four leaf rose curve, with leaves along the coordinate axes.
The four leaf rose curve \(r=\cos(2\theta)\) is plotted. Although the entire curve is plotted, the portion of the right-hand leaf that lies in the first quadrant is highlighted. This is the part of the curve corresponding to \(0\leq \theta\leq \pi/4\text{;}\) it begins at \((1,0)\) and ends at the origin.
(a)
(b)
Figure 10.5.25. Finding the surface area of a rose-curve petal that is revolved around its central axis
Solution.
We choose, as implied by the figure, to revolve the portion of the curve that lies on \([0,\pi/4]\) about the initial ray. Using Theorem 10.5.23 and the fact that \(\fp(\theta) = -2\sin(2\theta)\text{,}\) we have
\begin{align*} \text{ Surface Area } \amp = 2\pi\int_0^{\pi/4} \cos(2\theta)\sin(\theta)\sqrt{\big(-2\sin(2\theta)\big)^2+\big(\cos(2\theta)\big)^2}\, d\theta\\ \amp \approx 1.36707\text{.} \end{align*}
The integral is another that cannot be evaluated in terms of elementary functions. Simpson’s Rule, with \(n=4\text{,}\) approximates the value at \(1.36751\text{.}\)
This chapter has been about curves in the plane. While there is great mathematics to be discovered in the two dimensions of a plane, we live in a three dimensional world and hence we should also look to do mathematics in 3D — that is, in space. The next chapter begins our exploration into space by introducing the topic of vectors, which are incredibly useful and powerful mathematical objects.

Exercises 10.5.5 Exercises

Terms and Concepts

1.
Given polar equation \(r=f(\theta)\text{,}\) how can one create parametric equations of the same curve?
2.
With rectangular coordinates, it is natural to approximate area with ; with polar coordinates, it is natural to approximate area with .

Problems

Exercise Group.
Find \(\lz{y}{x}\) (in terms of \(\theta\)). Then find the equations of the tangent and normal lines to the curve at the indicated \(\theta\)-value.
3.
\(r=1\text{,}\) \(\theta=\pi/4\)
4.
\(r=\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta=\pi/4\)
5.
\(r=1+\sin(\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta = \pi/6\)
6.
\(\ds r=1-3\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta = 3\pi/4\)
7.
\(r=\theta\text{,}\) \(\theta=\pi/2\)
8.
\(r=\cos(3\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta=\pi/6\)
9.
\(r=\sin(4\theta)\text{,}\) \(\theta=\pi/3\)
10.
\(\ds r=\frac1{\sin(\theta) -\cos(\theta) }\text{;}\)\(\theta = \pi\)
Exercise Group.
Find the values of \(\theta\) in the given interval where the graph of the polar function has horizontal and vertical tangent lines.
11.
\(\ds r=3\text{;}\) \([0,2\pi]\)
12.
\(\ds r=2\sin(\theta)\text{;}\) \([0,\pi]\)
13.
\(\ds r=\cos(2\theta)\text{;}\) \([0,2\pi]\)
14.
\(r=1+\cos(\theta)\text{;}\) \([0, 2\pi)\)
Exercise Group.
Find the equation of the lines tangent to the graph at the pole.
15.
\(\ds r=\sin(\theta)\text{;}\)\([0,\pi]\)
16.
\(\ds r=\sin(3\theta)\text{;}\)\([0,\pi]\)
Exercise Group.
Find the area of the described region.
17.
Enclosed by the circle: \(\ds r=4\sin(\theta)\)
18.
Enclosed by the circle \(\ds r=5\)
19.
Find the area enclosed by one petal of \(r=\sin(3\theta)\text{.}\)
20.
Enclosed by one petal of the rose curve \(r=\cos (n\,\theta)\text{,}\) where \(n\) is a positive integer.
21.
Find the area enclosed by the cardioid \(r=1-\sin(\theta)\text{.}\)
22.
Enclosed by the inner loop of the limaçon \(\ds r=1+2\cos(\theta)\)
23.
Find the area enclosed by the outer loop of the limaçon \(r=1+2\cos(\theta)\) (including area enclosed by the inner loop).
24.
Find the area enclosed between the inner and outer loop of the limaçon \(r=1+2\cos(\theta)\text{.}\)
25.
Find the area enclosed by \(r=2\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) \(r=2\sin(\theta)\text{,}\) and the \(x\)-axis, as shown:
Two circles, one along each axis, bound a region in the first quadrant.
The area is .
26.
Find the area enclosed by \(r=\cos(\theta)\) and \(r=\sin(2\theta)\text{,}\) as shown:
A semi-circle and one leaf of a rose curve, both in the first quadrant, overlapping in a shaded area.
The area is .
27.
Enclosed by \(r=\cos(3 \theta)\) and \(r=\sin(3\theta)\text{,}\) as shown:
Overlapping leaves of two different three-leaf rose curves.
Two curves are shown. The first is the leaf of the three-leaf rose curve \(r=\sin(3\theta)\) that lies in the first quadrant. The second is the leaf of the three-leaf rose curve \(r=\cos(3\theta)\) that lies along the positive \(x\) axis. The shaded region is the interior of the leaf of \(r=\sin(3\theta)\text{,}\) except for the part that overlaps with the leaf of \(r=\cos(3\theta)\text{.}\)
28.
Enclosed by \(r=\cos(\theta)\) and \(r=1-\cos(\theta)\text{,}\) as shown:
A cardioid and a circle, and a region of overlap in the first quadrant.
Two polar curves are plotted. The first is a circle with center \((1/2,0)\) and radius \(1/2\text{;}\) it is symmetric about the \(x\) axis and passes through \((0,0)\) and \((1,0)\text{.}\)
The second curve is a cardioid. It is larger than the circle, and “points” in the opposite direction. That is, it is symmetric about the \(x\) axis, with its cusp at the origin, but its other \(x\) intercept lies on the negative \(x\) axis, at \((-2,0)\text{.}\)
The two curves overlap in a small region in the first quadrant, which is shaded. The region extends from the origin to the point in the first quadrant where the two curves intersect. It is bounded above (and to the left) by the circle, and below (and to the right) by the cardioid.
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, answer the questions involving arc length.
29.
Use the arc length formula to compute the arc length of the circle \(r=2\text{.}\)
30.
Use the arc length formula to compute the arc length of the circle \(r=4\sin(\theta)\text{.}\)
31.
Use the arc length formula to compute the arc length of \(r=\cos \theta+\sin \theta\text{.}\)
32.
Use the arc length formula to compute the arc length of the cardioid \(r=1+\cos\theta\text{.}\) (Hint: apply the formula, simplify, then use a Power-Reducing Formula to convert \(1+\cos \theta\) into a square.)
33.
Approximate the arc length of one petal of the rose curve \(r=\sin(3\theta)\) with Simpson’s Rule and \(n=4\text{.}\)
34.
Let \(x(\theta) = f(\theta)\cos(\theta)\) and \(y(\theta)=f(\theta)\sin(\theta)\text{.}\) Show, as suggested by the text, that
\begin{equation*} x\,'(\theta)^2+y\,'(\theta)^2 = \fp(\theta)^2+f(\theta)^2\text{.} \end{equation*}
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, answer the questions involving surface area.
35.
Use Theorem 10.5.23 to find the surface area of the sphere formed by revolving the circle \(r=2\) about the initial ray.
36.
Use Theorem 10.5.23 to find the surface area of the sphere formed by revolving the circle \(r=2\cos(\theta)\) about the initial ray.
37.
Find the surface area of the solid formed by revolving the cardioid \(r=1+\cos(\theta)\) about the initial ray.
38.
Find the surface area of the solid formed by revolving the circle \(r=2\cos(\theta)\) about the line \(\theta=\pi/2\text{.}\)
39.
Find the surface area of the solid formed by revolving the line \(r=3\sec(\theta)\text{,}\) \(-\pi/4\leq\theta\leq\pi/4\text{,}\) about the line \(\theta=\pi/2\text{.}\)
40.
Find the surface area of the solid formed by revolving the line \(r=3\sec\theta\text{,}\) \(0\leq\theta\leq\pi/4\text{,}\) about the initial ray.
PrevTopNext