Skip to main content
Ch. 8 - Techniques of Integration
Hass - Thomas' Calculus 15th Edition
Hass15th EditionThomas' CalculusISBN: 9780137616077Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 8, Problem 8.2.64b

Consider the region bounded by the graphs of
y = arctan(x), y = 0, and x = 1.
b. Find the volume of the solid formed by revolving this region about the y-axis.

Verified step by step guidance
1
First, identify the region bounded by the curves: \(y = \arctan(x)\), \(y = 0\), and the vertical line \(x = 1\). This region lies between \(x=0\) and \(x=1\) since \(y=0\) corresponds to the \(x\)-axis and \(y=\arctan(x)\) is above it for \(x > 0\).
Since the solid is formed by revolving the region about the \(y\)-axis, consider using the method of cylindrical shells. The formula for the volume using cylindrical shells when revolving around the \(y\)-axis is: \(V = \int_a^b 2\pi \cdot (\text{radius}) \cdot (\text{height}) \, dx\)
In this problem, the radius of a shell at position \(x\) is the distance from the \(y\)-axis, which is simply \(x\). The height of the shell is the vertical distance between the curves, which is \(\arctan(x) - 0 = \arctan(x)\).
Set up the integral for the volume as: \(V = \int_0^1 2\pi x \cdot \arctan(x) \, dx\)
To find the volume, you would evaluate the integral \(\int_0^1 x \arctan(x) \, dx\) and then multiply the result by \(2\pi\). Integration by parts is a suitable method to solve this integral.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
6m

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Volume of Solids of Revolution

This concept involves finding the volume of a 3D solid formed by rotating a 2D region around an axis. Common methods include the disk/washer method and the shell method, which use integration to sum infinitesimal volumes. Choosing the appropriate method depends on the axis of rotation and the given boundaries.
Recommended video:
04:48
Finding Volume Using Disks

Shell Method

The shell method calculates volume by integrating cylindrical shells formed by revolving vertical slices around a vertical axis. Each shell's volume is approximated by 2π(radius)(height)(thickness). This method is especially useful when revolving around the y-axis and the function is given in terms of x.
Recommended video:
07:33
Euler's Method

Inverse Trigonometric Functions and Their Properties

Understanding the function y = arctan(x) is crucial, including its domain, range, and behavior. Arctan(x) is the inverse of the tangent function, continuous and increasing for all real x, with horizontal asymptotes at ±π/2. This helps in setting integration limits and interpreting the region bounded by the curves.
Recommended video:
06:35
Derivatives of Other Inverse Trigonometric Functions