Surface area of parabolic sheet

In summary, a parabolic sheet is a curved surface in the shape of a parabola that can be created by rotating a parabola around its axis. Its surface area can be calculated using the formula A = 4πa^2/3, where "a" is the length of the semi-major axis. This calculation is useful in engineering, physics, and mathematics for designing structures, calculating heat transfer, and solving optimization problems. The surface area can be approximated using numerical integration methods or by dividing the sheet into smaller sections. Compared to other curved surfaces, a parabolic sheet has a greater surface area than a cylinder with the same base and height, but less than a sphere or a cone with the same dimensions.
  • #1
cscott
782
1
Am I correct in saying the surface parameterized by r = (sin v, u, cos v), v = [-pi/2, pi/2], u = [-1, 1] has an area of 2pi ?

I get something different by computing the arc length of the parabola within the bounds and multiplying by 2.

Which method is wrong?
 
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  • #2
Sure, but that is not a parabolic sheet, it is the half-shell of a cylinder with radius 1..
 
  • #3
Hmm.. I see. Thanks.
 

Related to Surface area of parabolic sheet

1. What is a parabolic sheet?

A parabolic sheet is a two-dimensional curved surface that is shaped like a parabola. It can be created by rotating a parabola around its axis.

2. How is the surface area of a parabolic sheet calculated?

The surface area of a parabolic sheet can be calculated by using the formula: A = 4πa2/3, where "a" is the length of the semi-major axis of the parabola.

3. What is the use of calculating the surface area of a parabolic sheet?

The surface area of a parabolic sheet is used in various fields such as engineering, physics, and mathematics. It can help in designing structures, calculating heat transfer, and solving optimization problems.

4. Can the surface area of a parabolic sheet be approximated?

Yes, the surface area of a parabolic sheet can be approximated by using numerical integration methods or by dividing the sheet into smaller sections and calculating the surface area of each section.

5. How does the surface area of a parabolic sheet compare to other curved surfaces?

The surface area of a parabolic sheet is greater than that of a cylinder with the same base and height, but less than that of a sphere with the same diameter. It is also less than the surface area of a cone with the same base and height.

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