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For the fourth Unit, polar coordinate system and and polar graphs will be discussed. Moreover,
the conversion of Cartesian coordinates(equations) to Polar coordinates(equations), and vice-versa will
also be introduced. We will also solve for the intersections of polar curves. Lastly, we solve areas of
regions bounded by polar curves.
Our goals for this unit are as follows. By the end of the unit, you should be able to
𝜋 √3 𝜋 √2 𝜋 1 𝜋
cos 0 = 1 cos = cos = cos = cos =0 ⋯
6 2 4 2 3 2 2
𝜋 1 𝜋 √2 𝜋 √3 𝜋
sin 0 = 0 sin = sin = sin = sin = 1 ⋯
6 2 4 2 3 2 2
4.1 Relation between Cartesian and Polar Coordinate Systems (TC7 pp. 790-796)
First we recall the Cartesian coordinate, then we give the polar coordinate. Plotting of points
in polar coordinates will immediately follow. Lastly, we will discuss how to convert Cartesian
coordinates(equations) to polar coordinates(equations).
𝒙: directed distance from the 𝒚 − axis 𝒚: directed distance from the 𝒙 − axis
A polar coordinate system consists of a horizontal ray (pointing to the right) called polar
axis. The initial point of the polar axis is called the pole, usually denoted by 𝑂. A point 𝑃 in the polar
coordinate system is represented by the ordered pair 𝑟, 𝜃 , where 𝑟 is the directed distance of 𝑃
from the pole 𝑂 and 𝜃 is the angle made by segment 𝑂𝑃 with the polar axis measured counter-
clockwise.
𝒙
− axis 𝒓, 𝜽
𝟐
𝒚
𝒓
𝜽 polar
axis
O
𝑥
The following are the steps in plotting points in polar coordinate system.
2. If 𝑟 > 0, the point is plotted 𝑟 units from the pole along the 𝜃 −axis.
If 𝑟 < 0, the point is plotted −𝑟 units from the pole on the opposite side of the 𝜃 −axis.
In the polar coordinate system, each point has many representations. For example, the point
5𝜋 3𝜋 13𝜋 𝜋
(2, ) can be represented as (2, − ) , (2, ) or (−2, ).
4 4 4 4
ILLUSTRATION:
2. 𝐵 𝟑, 𝟑𝝅
𝟐𝝅
3. 𝑪 (𝟑, − 𝟑
) B
3𝜋 A
4. 𝐷 (−4, 4
)
C D
TO DO:
Plot the followings points in polar coordinates.
𝝅
1. 𝐅 (𝟐, )
𝟔
𝟓𝝅
2. 𝐆 (𝟑, 𝟒
)
𝟐𝝅
3. 𝐇 (𝟏, − 𝟑
)
𝜋
4. I (−2, 4 )
𝟓𝝅
5. 𝑱 (𝟒, 𝟔
)
𝑥 𝑦 𝑦
From the figure below, we can see that cos 𝜃 = , sin 𝜃 = , tan 𝜃 = and 𝑟 2 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2.
𝑟 𝑟 𝑥
MUST REMEMBER‼!: CONVERSIONS
Cartesian coordinate: 𝑷 𝒙, 𝒚
𝒚
to POLAR: 𝒓 = ± 𝒙𝟐 + 𝒚𝟐 𝜽 = 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒏 ( ) with some adjustments
𝒙
Polar coordinate: 𝑷 𝒓, 𝜽
ILLUSTRATION:
Solution:
We have 𝑥 = −4 and 𝑦 = 4. ⇒𝑟= −4 2 + 42 = 4√2 and
4
tan 𝜃 = = −1
−4
3𝜋 7𝜋
⇒𝜃= or 𝜃 =
4 4
3𝜋
Since −4,4 ∈ 𝑄𝐼𝐼 and 𝑟 > 0, then 𝜃 = .
4
Therefore, the polar coordinates of −4,4 is
3𝜋
(4√2, 4
).
ILLUSTRATION:
Solution:
2
We have 𝑥 = √3 and 𝑦 = 1. ⇒ 𝑟 = −√(√3) + 12 = −√4 = −2 and
1
tan 𝜃 = = −1
√3
11𝜋 5𝜋
⇒𝜃= − 6 or 𝜃 = −
6
5𝜋
Since (√3, 1) ∈ 𝑄𝐼 and 𝑟 < 0, then 𝜃 = − .
6
Therefore, the polar coordinates of (√3, 1) is
5𝜋
(−2, − 6
).
ILLUSTRATION:
𝜋
3. Convert (2, ) to Cartesian coordinates.
4
Solution:
𝜋
We have 𝑟 = 2 and 𝜃 = .
4
𝜋 √2
⇒ 𝑥 = 2 cos = 2 ( ) = √2 and
4 2
𝜋 √2
⇒𝑦= 2 sin = 2 ( ) = √2 and
4 2
𝜋
Therefore, the Cartesian coordinates of (2, ) is
4
(√2, √2).
TO DO:
Convert the following to polar coordinates for Convert the following to Cartesian coordinates.
specified conditions for 𝑟 and 𝜃.
7𝜋
1. 4, −4 ; 𝑟 > 0 and −2𝜋 ≤ 𝜃 < 0 3. (3,
6
)
2𝜋
2. −3, −1 ; 𝑟 < 0 and 0 ≤ 𝜃 < 2𝜋 4. (−2, )
3
3𝜋
5. (5, 4
)
For converting Cartesian equations to polar, and vice-versa, we will still use the conversions
in the coordinates and apply it to the given equation.
ILLUSTRATION:
1. Express the equation of a circle 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 4 in polar form.
Solution:
𝑟 cos 𝜃 2 + 𝑟 sin 𝜃 2 = 4
𝑟 2 cos 2 𝜃 + 𝑟 2 sin2 𝜃 = 4
𝑟 2 cos 2 𝜃 + sin2 𝜃 = 4
𝑟2 1 = 4
𝑟 = ±2
ILLUSTRATION:
2. Express 𝑟 = −4 cos 𝜃 in Cartesian form.
Solution:
𝑥
𝑟 = −4 ( )
𝑟
𝑟 = −4𝑥
2
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = −4𝑥
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 4𝑥 = 0
2. Convert the Cartesian equation 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 to its polar form. Simplify the expression.
6
4. Express 𝑟 = in Cartesian form, then identify its graph.
2 sin 𝜃+cos 𝜃
Ron Larson & Bruce H. Edwards. (2016). Calculus, 10 th Edition. Philippines: Cengage
Learning Asia Pte. Ltd., p. 722
https://www.khanacademy.org/math/multivariable-calculus/integrating-multivariable-
functions/double-integrals-a/v/polar-coordinates-1
http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/CalcII/PolarCoordinates.aspx
4.2 Graphs of Polar Equations (TC7 pp. 798-803)
Now, we discuss some special polar graphs. In particular, we present equations and graphs
of lines, circles, limacons, rose, lemniscates and spirals.
Form Graph
𝜃=𝐶 diagonal line passing through the pole and making angle
of measure 𝐶 radians with the polar axis
ILLUSTRATIONS:
𝜋
1. Sketch the graph of 𝜃 = . 2. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 cos 𝜃 = 1.
4
Answer: Answer:
Answer:
MUST REMEMBER‼!: Equations of Circles
Form Graph
𝑟=𝐶 circle centered at the pole with radius 𝐶
𝑎 𝑎
𝑟 = 𝑎 cos 𝜃 circle centered at Cartesian point ( , 0) with radius
2 2
𝑎 𝑎
𝑟 = 𝑎 sin 𝜃 circle centered at Cartesian point (0, ) with radius
2 2
ILLUSTRATIONS:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 3. 2. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 4 cos 𝜃.
Answer: Answer:
Answer:
TO DO:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = −2 cos 𝜃 .
Form Graph
𝑟 = 𝑎 + 𝑏 cos 𝜃 limacon pointing to the right
where 𝑎, 𝑏 > 0.
𝑎
The value of determines the limacon’s shape.
𝑏
Condition Graph
𝑎
0<𝑏<1 limacon with a loop
𝑎
𝑏
=1 cardioid
𝑎
1<𝑏<2 limacon with a dent
𝜋 3𝜋
2. Plot points at 𝜃 = 0, , 𝜋, .
2 2
3. Using the four points you plotted, trace the proper graph as identified. Remember that
limaçons are smooth, rounded graphs.
ILLUSTRATION:
Scaling 1:1/2
1. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 1 + 2 cos 𝜃.
Solution:
𝑎 1
=
𝑏 2
So its graph is a limacon with a loop.
Commented [SCM5]: label x-axis
𝜋 𝜋 2𝜋 3𝜋 5𝜋
θ 0 𝜋
3 2 3 2 3
𝑟 3 2 1 0 -1 1 2
ILLUSTRATION:
2. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 2 − 2 sin 𝜃.
Solution:
𝑎 2
𝑏
=2=1
So its graph is a cardioid.
𝜋 𝜋 5𝜋 7𝜋 3𝜋 11𝜋
θ 0 𝜋
6 2 6 6 2 6
𝑟 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 3
Commented [SCM6]: Add Illustrations for with a dent and
convex
Add To Do “”
TO DO:
1. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 3 − 2 cos 𝜃.
Form Graph
𝑟 = 𝑎 cos 𝑛𝜃 If 𝑛 is even: rose with 2𝑛 congruent petals Commented [SCM7]: n is positive integer
𝑟 = 𝑎 sin 𝑛𝜃 If 𝑛 is odd: rose with 𝑛 congruent petals.
2. For the tips of the petals, solve for 𝜃 such that sin 𝑛𝜃 = ±1 or cos 𝑛𝜃 = ±1.
3. The curve passes through the pole (origin) at such that sin 𝑛𝜃 = 0 or cos 𝑛𝜃 = 0.
4. Using the points you solved for, trace the proper graph as identified. Remember that petals of
a rose are smooth and rounded.
ILLUSTRATION:
1. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 4 cos 2𝜃 .
Solution:
𝑛 = 2, which is even
So its graph is a rose with 2𝑛 = 4 = 4 congruent petals.
Commented [SCM8]: remove AV
Consider 0 ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 2𝜋. So, 0 ≤ 2𝜃 ≤ 4𝜋.
For the tips:
cos 2𝜃 = 1 cos 2𝜃 = −1
2𝜃 = 0, 2𝜋, 4𝜋 2𝜃 = 𝜋, 3𝜋
𝜋 3𝜋
𝜃 = 0, 𝜋, 2𝜋 𝜃 = 2, 2
ILLUSTRATION:
2. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = −5 sin 3𝜃 .
Solution:
𝑛 = 3, which is odd
So its graph is a rose with 𝑛 = 3 = 3 congruent petals.
𝜋 5𝜋 3𝜋
𝜃 0
6 6 2 Commented [SCM10]: complete the table
add receptacles
𝑟 0 -5 -5 -5
TO DO:
1. Identify and sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 3 sin 2𝜃 .
Form Graph
𝑟 2 = 𝑎 cos 2𝜃 Horizontal lemniscate
𝑟 2 = 𝑎 sin 2𝜃 Diagonal lemniscate
Note that in both forms, the right-hand side cannot be negative. Hence, there should be no
graph for the values of 𝜃 that will make the right-hand side negative. Commented [SCM11]: paraphrase
2. The curve passes through the pole (origin) at such that sin 2𝜃 = 0 or cos 2𝜃 = 0.
3. Use the values in step 2 as a guide to avoid the values of 𝜃 that will make the right-hand side
negative.
4. Using the points you solved for, trace the proper graph as identified. Remember that
propellers are smooth and rounded.
ILLUSTRATION:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 2 = 4 cos 2𝜃 .
𝜋
𝜃 0 𝜋
4
𝑟 2 0 2
𝜋 3𝜋 5𝜋 7𝜋
Note that there is no graph for <𝜃< and <𝜃< .
4 4 4 4
ILLUSTRATION:
2. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 2 = −9 sin 2𝜃 .
Solution:
For the two tips (𝑎 < 0 :
sin 2𝜃 = −1.
3𝜋 7𝜋
2𝜃 = 2 2
,
3𝜋 7𝜋
𝜃= ,
4 4
For the pole:
sin 2𝜃 = 0
2𝜃 = 0, 𝜋, 2𝜋, 3𝜋
𝜋 3𝜋
𝜃 = 0, 2 , 𝜋, 2
3𝜋 7𝜋
𝜃 0
4 4
𝑟 0 3 3
𝜋 3𝜋
Note that there is no graph for 0 < 𝜃 < and 𝜋 < 𝜃 < .
2 2
TO DO:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 16 sin 2𝜃 .
Form Graph
𝑟 = 𝑎 + 𝑏𝜃 Archimedean spiral
𝑟 = 𝑎𝑒 𝑏𝜃 logarithmic spiral
NOTE: To sketch a graph of a spiral, it is advisable to plot at least ten points, then connect
them to form a spiral.
ILLUSTRATION:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 𝜃.
Solution:
𝜋 𝜋 3𝜋
𝜃 0 𝜋
4 2 4
𝜋 𝜋 3𝜋 3 2
𝑟 0 𝜋
2 2
4 2 4
5𝜋 3𝜋 7𝜋 9𝜋
𝜃 2𝜋
4 2 4 4
5𝜋 3𝜋 7𝜋 9𝜋
𝑟 2𝜋
4 2 4 4
TO DO:
1. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 1 + 2𝜃 .
𝜃
2. Sketch the graph of 𝑟 = 𝑒 𝜋 (use a calculator to approximate the values).
Ron Larson & Bruce H. Edwards. (2016). Calculus, 10 th Edition. Philippines: Cengage
Learning Asia Pte. Ltd., p. 722-723
https://youtu.be/qVn_Lfec-Ac
http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/CalcII/PolarCoordinates.aspx
4.3 Area in Polar Coordinates (TC7 pp. 807-812)
In this section, formulas for solving areas bounded by polar curves are given. Moreover, we
give a brief discussion on how to determine the intersection/s of polar curves.
In most cases, it is better to sketch the graph of polar curve and identify the bounded region.
ILLUSTRATION:
1. Set-up the integral that gives the area of the region inside the cardioid defined by
𝑟 = 2 + 2 sin 𝜃.
Solution:
𝑟 = 2 + 2 sin 𝜃
1 𝛽
𝐴 = 2 ∫𝛼 [𝑓 𝜃 ]2 𝑑𝜃
1 2𝜋
= 2 ∫0 2 + 2 sin 𝜃 2 𝑑𝜃
𝜋 3𝜋
𝐴 = ∫ 2𝜋 2 + 2 sin 𝜃 2 𝑑𝜃 = ∫𝜋2 2 + 2 sin 𝜃 2 𝑑𝜃
−
2 2
Before we solve for the area of regions bounded by two polar curves, let’s first discuss how to
get the intersections of polar curves.
The following are the steps to solve for the intersections of two polar curves.
3. Solve for 𝜃.
4. Solve for 𝑟.
Solution:
2 + 2 cos 𝜃 = 3
2 cos 𝜃 = 1 Commented [SCM14]: show the values of r and the points
1
cos 𝜃 = 2 of intersection in the graph
𝜋 5𝜋
𝜃= ,
3 3
ILLUSTRATION:
3. Determine the point/s of intersection of 𝑟 2 = 4 cos 2𝜃 and 𝑟 = √2.
Scaling 1:1/2
Solution: Commented [SCM15]: label x-axis
show values of r and the points of intersection in the graph
2
(√2) = 4 cos 2𝜃
4 cos 2𝜃 = 2
1
cos 2𝜃 = 2
𝜋 5𝜋 7𝜋 11𝜋
2𝜃 = , , ,
3 3 3 3
𝜋 5𝜋 7𝜋 11𝜋
𝜃= , ,
6 6 6
, 6
Suppose 𝑓 𝜃 ≥ 𝑔 𝜃 ≥ 0 for 𝛼 ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 𝛽.
Solution: 𝑟 = 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
𝑟=3
From Illustration 2 above, they intersect
𝜋 5𝜋
at 𝜃 = and 𝜃 = .
3 3
𝜋
1 3 2
𝐴 = ∫ [ 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
𝜋 − 3 2 ]𝑑𝜃
2 −3
7𝜋
1 3 2
= ∫ [ 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
5𝜋 − 3 2 ]𝑑𝜃
2
3
𝜋
2
= ∫0 [ 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
3 − 3 2 ]𝑑𝜃
ILLUSTRATION:
2. Set-up the integral that gives the area of the shaded region.
Solution: 𝑟 = 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
𝑟=3
5𝜋
1 3 2
𝐴= ∫ [ 3𝜋 − 2 + 2 cos 𝜃 2 ]𝑑𝜃
2 3
𝜋 2
= ∫𝜋 [ 3 − 2 + 2 cos 𝜃 2 ]𝑑𝜃
3
ILLUSTRATION:
3. Set-up the integral that gives the area of the shaded region.
Solution: 𝑟 = 2 + 2 cos 𝜃
𝑟=3
𝜋
𝜋
𝐴 = ∫03 32 𝑑𝜃 + ∫𝜋 2 + 2 cos 𝜃 2 𝑑𝜃
3
Set-up the integral that gives the area of the indicated region .
4. the region outside the circle 𝑟 = 3 but inside the cardioid 𝑟 = 2 − 2 cos 𝜃
5. the region inside the circle 𝑟 = 1 but outside the petals of 𝑟 = sin 2𝜃
6. the region inside the circle 𝑟 = 3 but outside the limaçon with a loop 𝑟 = 1 + 2 cos 𝜃
Ron Larson & Bruce H. Edwards. (2016). Calculus, 10 th Edition. Philippines: Cengage
Learning Asia Pte. Ltd., p. 731-733
https://www.khanacademy.org/math/ap-calculus-bc/bc-advanced-functions-new/bc-9-
8/v/formula-area-polar-graph
http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/CalcII/PolarArea.aspx
_________________________