How to Convert a Polar Equation to Cartesian Form?

In summary, to find the Cartesian Form of r(1+sinθ)=a, we can use the equations x=rcosθ, y=rsinθ, and r2=x2+y2 to get to the point of x2=a2-2ay. However, it is not possible to eliminate "a" in the final answer. So, the Cartesian Form can be expressed as y=1/2[a-(x2/a)] or (a2-x2)/2a.
  • #1
qablos
13
0
Find the Cartesian Form of

r(1+sinθ)=a
I understand that:
x=rcosθ
y=rsinθ
and r2=x2+y2I can get quite far to the point I end up with

x2=a2-2ay

I'm struggling to eliminate "a"...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
qablos said:
Find the Cartesian Form of

r(1+sinθ)=a



I understand that:
x=rcosθ
y=rsinθ
and r2=x2+y2


I can get quite far to the point I end up with

x2=a2-2ay

I'm struggling to eliminate "a"...

You can't eliminate a. I think you are already done.
 
  • #3
Dick said:
You can't eliminate a. I think you are already done.

Okay...I've expressed my answer as:

y=1/2[a-(x2/a)]

Is that a better way to express it?
 
  • #4
I feel it's slightly clearer as (a2-x2)/2a, but your answer is fine.
 

Related to How to Convert a Polar Equation to Cartesian Form?

1. What is the Cartesian form of a mathematical equation?

The Cartesian form of a mathematical equation is a way of representing the equation using the coordinates of a 2D or 3D graph, with the x-axis representing the horizontal values and the y-axis representing the vertical values.

2. How do you convert an equation to Cartesian form?

To convert an equation to Cartesian form, you need to rewrite it in the form of y = mx + b, where m is the slope of the line and b is the y-intercept. This form is also known as the slope-intercept form.

3. Can all equations be written in Cartesian form?

No, not all equations can be written in Cartesian form. Only linear equations, which have a constant slope, can be written in this form. Other types of equations, such as quadratic or exponential equations, require different forms of representation.

4. What are the benefits of using Cartesian form?

Using Cartesian form allows for a visual representation of the equation on a graph, making it easier to analyze and understand the relationship between the variables. It also allows for easier manipulation and solving of the equation.

5. How can Cartesian form be used in real life?

Cartesian form is used in various fields such as engineering, physics, and economics to model and analyze real-life situations. It helps in understanding and predicting the behavior of variables and their relationships in these situations.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
277
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
958
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
881
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
7K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top