Chapter 11: Problem 42
Graph each polar equation for \(\theta\) in \(\left[0^{\circ}, 360^{\circ}\right)\). In Exercises \(39-48\), identify the rype of polar graph. $$r=2-\cos \theta$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The graph is a limaçon with a dimple, described by \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \).
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Equation
The given polar equation is \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \). This is a type of limaçon equation, a general form of \( r = a - b \cos \theta \). This specific form, where \( a > b \), typically results in a limaçon with an inner loop.
02
Determine Key Points
Determine some key points by substituting values for \( \theta \):ewline- When \( \theta = 0^{\circ} \), \( r = 2 - \cos 0^{\circ} = 1 \).ewline- When \( \theta = 90^{\circ} \), \( r = 2 - \cos 90^{\circ} = 2 \).ewline- When \( \theta = 180^{\circ} \), \( r = 2 - \cos 180^{\circ} = 3 \).ewline- When \( \theta = 270^{\circ} \), \( r = 2 - \cos 270^{\circ} = 2 \).ewline- When \( \theta = 360^{\circ} \), \( r = 2 - \cos 360^{\circ} = 1 \).
03
Analyze the Graph Shape
Since \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \) is of the form \( r = a - b \cos \theta \) with \( a = 2 \) and \( b = 1 \), the graph will be a limaçon without an inner loop but rather a dimple, since \( a > b \).
04
Draft the Polar Graph
1. Start at the initial point where \( \theta = 0^{\circ} \) and \( r = 1 \).2. At \( \theta = 90^{\circ} \), the point \( r = 2 \) lies further out from the pole.3. The maximum value occurs at \( \theta = 180^{\circ} \) with \( r = 3 \).4. At \( \theta = 270^{\circ} \), \( r \) returns to 2.5. Complete the cycle as \( \theta \) approaches \( 360^{\circ} \), going back to \( r = 1 \).Join these points in a continuous curve, reflecting the shape of a dimpled limaçon.
05
Confirm Type of Polar Graph
By observing the points and continuous path, it's clear that the graph is a limaçon with a dimple, which is typical for the cases where \( a > b \) in the equation \( r = a - b \cos \theta \).
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Understanding Limaçons
Limaçons are intriguing shapes formed by certain polar equations. A polar equation like \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \) creates a limaçon. These curves can take various forms depending on the relation between the constants \( a \) and \( b \) in the general equation \( r = a - b \cos \theta \) or \( r = a - b \sin \theta \).
One common feature of limaçons is that they can appear as a dimpled shape, have an inner loop, or be convex.
One common feature of limaçons is that they can appear as a dimpled shape, have an inner loop, or be convex.
- If \( a > b \), as in our equation with \( a = 2 \) and \( b = 1 \), the limaçon will have a dimple but no inner loop.
- If \( a = b \), you'll get a cardioid shape.
- If \( a < b \), the curve features an inner loop.
Role of Trigonometric Functions
Trigonometric functions like sine and cosine are foundational in polar equations. In the equation \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \), the trigonometric function \( \cos \theta \) dictates how the radius \( r \) changes as the angle \( \theta \) varies.
Cosine function is periodic, ranging from -1 to 1. This periodicity causes the radius \( r \) to vary depending on the angle \( \theta \), leading to the cyclical nature of polar graphs.
Cosine function is periodic, ranging from -1 to 1. This periodicity causes the radius \( r \) to vary depending on the angle \( \theta \), leading to the cyclical nature of polar graphs.
- When \( \theta = 0^{\circ} \), \( \cos \theta \) is at its maximum (1), so r is smaller.
- As \( \theta \) approaches \( 180^{\circ} \), \( \cos \theta \) reaches its minimum (-1), maximizing \( r \).
- when \( \theta = 90^{\circ}\) or \( 270^{\circ} \), \( \cos \theta \) is zero, reflecting the mid-range value of \( r \).
Graphing on the Polar Coordinate System
Polar graphing requires plotting points based on their angle and distance from the origin, called the pole. It's different from Cartesian graphing, which uses x and y coordinates.
For the limaçon equation \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \):
For the limaçon equation \( r = 2 - \cos \theta \):
- You start by plotting points where \( \theta \) is at key angles, such as \( 0^{\circ}, 90^{\circ}, 180^{\circ}, 270^{\circ}, \) and \( 360^{\circ} \).
- With \( \theta = 0^{\circ} \), the point is closer to the pole because \( r = 1 \).
- At \( \theta = 180^{\circ} \), the point is farthest from the pole with \( r = 3 \).
- As you map these points, draw a smooth curve connecting them to reflect the continuous nature of the limaçon.