Math Path
MATH 01131 · Calculus II

MATH 01131 · Applications

Arc length / surface area ideas

Definition

Arc length L=∫ₐᵇ √(1+(y′)²) dx. Surface of revolution: S=2π∫ radius · √(1+(y′)²) dx (radius = distance to axis).

Read this

These integrals are often messy — setup skill matters more than closed forms.

Parametric versions replace with √((dx/dt)²+(dy/dt)²) dt.

Check that the derivative exists and is continuous on the interval.

Drill with flashcards

Flip through these until you can say the answer before revealing it.

Flashcards · 1 / 3

Click the card to flip

Try this

Attempt each problem first, then open the worked solution.

  1. 1.Set up arc length of y=x^{3/2} from 0 to 4 (do not force a pretty answer).