Calculus Question

[mrkun]

Is there a way to graph polar equations without having to either write out values for (r, theta) or converting to rectangular coordinates? If not, what's the most effective way to graph these things? I'm specifically interested Cardioids, Limacons, "Petaled Roses," etc.

Thanks.

 

[phatj]

the easiest way IMO is to learn patters of limacons cardiods etc.... but always plot out points... once you see the pattern you can finish it without much trouble....

polar coordinates are generally a pain in the ass though and luckily if you go on further in ur study of calculus you wont really ever have to plot a polar graph yourself. In my college calc classes (i'm a math major) the only thing you have to plot is cartesian stuff the polar/cylindrical stuff is almost always given.....

 

[TheoPetro]

we dont even use the graphs for polar coords anymore. we just use teh conversions w/ spherical coords (like polar but in 3D WOW!) to solve integrals that would be otherwise not possable