8.4 Polar coordinates: graphs  (Page 6/16)

Testing for symmetry, we find again that the symmetry tests do not tell the whole story. The graph is not only symmetric with respect to the polar axis, but also with respect to the line $\theta =\frac{\pi }{2}$ and the pole.

Now we will find the zeros. First make the substitution $u=4\theta .$

The zero is $\theta =\frac{\pi }{8}.$ The point $\left(0,\frac{\pi }{8}\right)$ is on the curve.

Next, we find the maximum $\left|r\right|.$ We know that the maximum value of $\cos u=1$ when $\theta =0.$ Thus,

The point $\left(2,0\right)$ is on the curve.

The graph of the rose curve has unique properties, which are revealed in [link] .

As $r=0$ when $\theta =\frac{\pi }{8},$ it makes sense to divide values in the table by $\frac{\pi }{8}$ units. A definite pattern emerges. Look at the range of r -values: 2, 0, −2, 0, 2, 0, −2, and so on. This represents the development of the curve one petal at a time. Starting at $r=0,$ each petal extends out a distance of $r=2,$ and then turns back to zero $2n$ times for a total of eight petals. See the graph in [link] .

The graph of the equation shows symmetry with respect to the line $\theta =\frac{\pi }{2}.$ Next, find the zeros and maximum. We will want to make the substitution $u=5\theta .$

The maximum value is calculated at the angle where $\sin \theta$ is a maximum. Therefore,

Thus, the maximum value of the polar equation is 2. This is the length of each petal. As the curve for $n$ odd yields the same number of petals as $n,$ there will be five petals on the graph. See [link] .

Create a table of values similar to [link] .

As $r$ is equal to $\theta ,$ the plot of the Archimedes’ spiral begins at the pole at the point (0, 0). While the graph hints of symmetry, there is no formal symmetry with regard to passing the symmetry tests. Further, there is no maximum value, unless the domain is restricted.

Create a table such as [link] .

Notice that the r -values are just the decimal form of the angle measured in radians. We can see them on a graph in [link] .