Definition 11.1.4. Distance In Space.
Let \(P=(x_1,y_1,z_1)\) and \(Q = (x_2,y_2,z_2)\) be points in space. The distance \(D\) between \(P\) and \(Q\) is
\begin{equation*}
D = \sqrt{(x_2-x_1)^2+(y_2-y_1)^2+(z_2-z_1)^2}\text{.}
\end{equation*}
Section 11.1 Introduction to Cartesian Coordinates in Space
Up to this point in this text we have considered mathematics in a 2-dimensional world. We have plotted graphs on the \(xy\)-plane using rectangular and polar coordinates and found the area of regions in the plane. We have considered properties of solid objects, such as volume and surface area, but only by first defining a curve in the plane and then rotating it out of the plane.
While there is wonderful mathematics to explore in “2D,” we live in a “3D” world and eventually we will want to apply mathematics involving this third dimension. In this section we introduce Cartesian coordinates in space and explore basic surfaces. This will lay a foundation for much of what we do in the remainder of the text.
Each point \(P\) in space can be represented with an ordered triple, \(P=(a,b,c)\text{,}\) where \(a\text{,}\) \(b\) and \(c\) represent the relative position of \(P\) along the \(x\)-, \(y\)- and \(z\)-axes, respectively. Each axis is perpendicular to the other two.
Visualizing points in space on paper can be problematic, as we are trying to represent a 3-dimensional concept on a 2-dimensional medium. We cannot draw three lines representing the three axes in which each line is perpendicular to the other two. Despite this issue, standard conventions exist for plotting shapes in space that we will discuss that are more than adequate.
One convention is that the axes must conform to the right hand rule. This rule states that when the index finger of the right hand is extended in the direction of the positive \(x\)-axis, and the middle finger (bent “inward” so it is perpendicular to the palm) points along the positive \(y\)-axis, then the extended thumb will point in the direction of the positive \(z\)-axis. (It may take some thought to verify this, but this system is inherently different from the one created by using the “left hand rule.”)
As long as the coordinate axes are positioned so that they follow this rule, it does not matter how the axes are drawn on paper. There are two popular methods that we briefly discuss.
The \(x\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\) and the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(-1\) to \(3\text{.}\) The point \(P= (2,1,3)\) is drawn in space. A dashed cuboid is drawn with one vertex at the origin, three of its edges along the coordinate axes, and the point \(P\) on the corner opposite the origin.
In Figure 11.1.2 we see the point \(P=(2,1,3)\) plotted on a set of axes. The basic convention here is that the \(xy\)-plane is drawn in its standard way, with the \(z\)-axis down to the left. The perspective is that the paper represents the \(xy\)-plane and the positive \(z\) axis is coming up, off the page. This method is preferred by many engineers. Because it can be hard to tell where a single point lies in relation to all the axes, dashed lines have been added to let one see how far along each axis the point lies.
One can also consider the \(xy\)-plane as being a horizontal plane in, say, a room, where the positive \(z\)-axis is pointing up. When one steps back and looks at this room, one might draw the axes as shown in Figure 11.1.3. The same point \(P\) is drawn, again with dashed lines. This point of view is preferred by most mathematicians, and is the convention adopted by this text.
Just as the \(x\)- and \(y\)-axes divide the plane into four quadrants, the \(x\)-, \(y\)-, and \(z\)-coordinate planes divide space into eight octants. The octant in which \(x\text{,}\) \(y\text{,}\) and \(z\) are positive is called the first octant. We do not name the other seven octants in this text.
The \(x\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\) and the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(-1\) to \(3\text{.}\) The point \(P= (2,1,3)\) is drawn in space. A dashed cuboid is drawn with one vertex at the origin, three of its edges along the coordinate axes, and the point \(P\) on the corner opposite the origin. The \(z\) axis is shown as the vertical line.
Subsection 11.1.1 Measuring Distances
It is of critical importance to know how to measure distances between points in space. The formula for doing so is based on measuring distance in the plane, and is known (in both contexts) as the Euclidean measure of distance.
We refer to the line segment that connects points \(P\) and \(Q\) in space as \(\overline{PQ}\text{,}\) and refer to the length of this segment as \(\norm{\overline{PQ}}\text{.}\) The above distance formula allows us to compute the length of this segment.
Example 11.1.6. Length of a line segment.
Let \(P = (1,4,-1)\) and let \(Q = (2,1,1)\text{.}\) Draw the line segment \(\overline{PQ}\) and find its length.
Solution 1.
The points \(P\) and \(Q\) are plotted in Figure 11.1.7; no special consideration need be made to draw the line segment connecting these two points; simply connect them with a straight line. One cannot actually measure this line on the page and deduce anything meaningful; its true length must be measured analytically. Applying Definition 11.1.4, we have
\begin{equation*}
\norm{\overline{PQ}} = \sqrt{(2-1)^2+(1-4)^2+(1-(-1))^2} = \sqrt{14}\approx 3.74\text{.}
\end{equation*}
The \(x\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(2\text{,}\) the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\) and the \(y\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(4\text{.}\) Two points \(P = (1, 4, -1)\) and \(Q = (2, 1, 1)\) are drawn in space and are connected by a straight line.
Solution 2. Video solution
Subsection 11.1.2 Spheres
Just as a circle is the set of all points in the plane equidistant from a given point (its center), a sphere is the set of all points in space that are equidistant from a given point. Definition 11.1.4 allows us to write an equation of the sphere.
We start with a point \(C = (a,b,c)\) which is to be the center of a sphere with radius \(r\text{.}\) If a point \(P=(x,y,z)\) lies on the sphere, then \(P\) is \(r\) units from \(C\text{;}\) that is,
\begin{equation*}
\norm{\overline{PC}} = \sqrt{(x-a)^2+(y-b)^2+(z-c)^2} = r\text{.}
\end{equation*}
Squaring both sides, we get the standard equation of a sphere in space with center at \(C=(a,b,c)\) with radius \(r\text{,}\) as given in the following Key Idea.
Key Idea 11.1.8. Standard Equation of a Sphere in Space.
The standard equation of the sphere with radius \(r\text{,}\) centered at \(C=(a,b,c)\text{,}\) is
\begin{equation*}
(x-a)^2+(y-b)^2+(z-c)^2=r^2\text{.}
\end{equation*}
Example 11.1.10. Equation of a sphere.
Find the center and radius of the sphere defined by \(x^2+2x+y^2-4y+z^2-6z=2\text{.}\)
Solution 1.
To determine the center and radius, we must put the equation in standard form. This requires us to complete the square (three times).
\begin{align*}
x^2+2x+y^2-4y+z^2-6z\amp =2\\
(x^2+2x+1) + (y^2-4y+4)+ (z^2-6z+9) - 14 \amp = 2\\
(x+1)^2 + (y-2)^2 + (z-3)^2 \amp = 16
\end{align*}
The sphere is centered at \((-1,2,3)\) and has a radius of 4.
Solution 2. Video solution
The equation of a sphere is an example of an implicit function defining a surface in space. In the case of a sphere, the variables \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) are all used. We now consider situations where surfaces are defined where one or two of these variables are absent.
Subsection 11.1.3 Introduction to Planes in Space
The coordinate axes naturally define three planes (shown in Figure 11.1.12), the coordinate planes: the \(xy\)-plane, the \(yz\)-plane and the \(xz\)-plane. The \(xy\)-plane is characterized as the set of all points in space where the \(z\)-value is 0. This, in fact, gives us an equation that describes this plane: \(z=0\text{.}\) Likewise, the \(xz\)-plane is all points where the \(y\)-value is 0, characterized by \(y=0\text{.}\)
The axes are uncalibrated. The plane is drawn along the \(x\) and \(y\) axes at \(z=0\text{,}\) the normal is along the \(z\) axis.
The axes are uncalibrated. The plane is drawn along the \(y\) and \(z\) axes at \(x=0\text{,}\) the normal is along the \(x\) axis.
The axes are uncalibrated. The plane is drawn along the \(x\) and \(z\) axes at \(y =0\text{,}\) the normal is along the \(y\) axis.
The equation \(x=2\) describes all points in space where the \(x\)-value is 2. This is a plane, parallel to the \(yz\)-coordinate plane, shown in Figure 11.1.13.
The \(y\) and the \(z\) axes are uncalibrated, the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\text{.}\) The \(yz\) plane is drawn at \(x=-2\text{.}\)
Example 11.1.14. Regions defined by planes.
Sketch the region defined by the inequalities \(-1\leq y\leq 2\text{.}\)
Solution 1.
The region is all points between the planes \(y=-1\) and \(y=2\text{.}\) These planes are sketched in Figure 11.1.15, which are parallel to the \(xz\)-plane. Thus the region extends infinitely in the \(x\) and \(z\) directions, and is bounded by planes in the \(y\) direction.
The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated, the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-2\) and \(2\text{.}\) Two planes are drawn parallel to the \(xz\) plane at \(y=-1\) and \(y =2\text{,}\) with normal along the \(y\) axis.
Solution 2. Video solution
Subsection 11.1.4 Cylinders
The equation \(x=1\) obviously lacks the \(y\) and \(z\) variables, meaning it defines points where the \(y\) and \(z\) coordinates can take on any value. Now consider the equation \(x^2+y^2=1\) in space. In the plane, this equation describes a circle of radius 1, centered at the origin. In space, the \(z\) coordinate is not specified, meaning it can take on any value. In Figure 11.1.17.(a), we show part of the graph of the equation \(x^2+y^2=1\) by sketching 3 circles: the bottom one has a constant \(z\)-value of \(-1.5\text{,}\) the middle one has a \(z\)-value of 0 and the top circle has a \(z\)-value of 1. By plotting all possible \(z\)-values, we get the surface shown in Figure 11.1.17.(b). This surface looks like a “tube,” or a “cylinder”; mathematicians call this surface a cylinder for an entirely different reason.
The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated, the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\text{.}\) There are three circles with radius of \(1\) and centres all along the \(z\) axis and are laid parallel to the \(xy\) plane. The circle in the middle has its centre on the origin.
The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated, the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\text{.}\) There are three circles with radius of \(1\) and centres all along the \(z\) axis and are laid parallel to the \(xy\) plane. These circles form the area of cross-section and a cylinder of equation \(x^2+y^2 =1\) is drawn that includes all three circles.
Definition 11.1.18. Cylinder.
Let \(C\) be a curve in a plane and let \(L\) be a line not parallel to \(C\text{.}\) A cylinder is the set of all lines parallel to \(L\) that pass through \(C\text{.}\) The curve \(C\) is the directrix of the cylinder, and the lines are the rulings.
In this text, we consider curves \(C\) that lie in planes parallel to one of the coordinate planes, and lines \(L\) that are perpendicular to these planes, forming right cylinders. Thus the directrix can be defined using equations involving 2 variables, and the rulings will be parallel to the axis of the third variable.
In the example preceding the definition, the curve \(x^2+y^2=1\) in the \(xy\)-plane is the directrix and the rulings are lines parallel to the \(z\)-axis. (Any circle shown in Figure 11.1.17 can be considered a directrix; we simply choose the one where \(z=0\text{.}\)) Sample rulings can also be viewed in Figure 11.1.17.(b). More examples will help us understand this definition.
Example 11.1.19. Graphing cylinders.
Graph the following cylinders.
Solution 1.
-
We can view the equation \(z=y^2\) as a parabola in the \(yz\)-plane, as illustrated in Figure 11.1.20.(a). As \(x\) does not appear in the equation, the rulings are lines through this parabola parallel to the \(x\)-axis, shown in Figure 11.1.20.(b). These rulings give a general idea as to what the surface looks like, drawn in Figure 11.1.20.(c).The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) are uncalibrated. The graph shows a parabola \(z = y^2\) drawn on the \(zy\) plane. The parabola has its vertex on the origin.
(a) The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axis are uncalibrated. The parabola is drawn on the \(y\) and \(z\) axis, \(z\) being a function of \(y\text{.}\) There is a group of parallel lines called rulings equidistant from each other that are drawn on the parabola parallel to the \(xz\) plane, these lines give an idea of the surface.(b) The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axis are uncalibrated. The parabola is drawn on the \(y\) and \(z\) axis, \(z\) being a function of \(y\text{.}\) A surface with a parabolic area of cross-section parallel to the \(yz\) plane is shown.(c) Figure 11.1.20. Sketching the cylinder defined by \(z=y^2\) -
We can view the equation \(x=\sin(z)\) as a sine curve that exists in the \(xz\)-plane, as shown in Figure 11.1.21.(a). The rules are parallel to the \(y\) axis as the variable \(y\) does not appear in the equation \(x=\sin(z)\text{;}\) some of these are shown in Figure 11.1.21.(b). The surface is shown in Figure 11.1.21.(c).The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated. A function \(x= sin(z)\) is drawn on the \(xz\) plane where \(x\) is a function of \(z\text{.}\) The \(z\) axis is positioned vertically, and two sine waves are drawn on it one along the positive \(z\) axis and one along the negative \(z\) axis. The two waves connect at the origin.
(a) The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated. A function \(x= sin(z)\) is drawn on the \(xz\) plane where \(x\) is a function of \(z\text{.}\) The \(z\) axis is positioned vertically, and two sine waves are drawn on it one along the positive \(z\) axis and one along the negative \(z\) axis. The two waves connect at the origin. The rules are drawn on the curve and are parallel to the \(y\) axis.(b) The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated. The sine function \(x=\sin(z)\) described previously is used as the area of cross-section to form the surface.(c) Figure 11.1.21. Sketching the cylinder defined by \(x=\sin(z)\)
Solution 2. Video solution
Subsection 11.1.5 Surfaces of Revolution
One of the applications of integration we learned previously was to find the volume of solids of revolution — solids formed by revolving a curve about a horizontal or vertical axis. We now consider how to find the equation of the surface of such a solid.
Consider the surface formed by revolving \(y=\sqrt{x}\) about the \(x\)-axis. Cross-sections of this surface parallel to the \(yz\)-plane are circles, as shown in Figure 11.1.23.(a). Each circle has equation of the form \(y^2+z^2=r^2\) for some radius \(r\text{.}\) The radius is a function of \(x\text{;}\) in fact, it is \(r(x) = \sqrt{x}\text{.}\) Thus the equation of the surface shown in Figure 11.1.23.(b) is \(y^2+z^2=(\sqrt{x})^2\text{.}\)
The \(y\) and \(x\) axes are drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\) and the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(4\text{.}\) There are two planes drawn parallel to the \(yz\) plane and both of them have circles outlined inside the plane. The first plane at \(x=1\) has a smaller circle, while the one at \(x=4\) is bigger, both circles have formula \(y^2 + z^2 = r^2\) for some radius \(r\text{.}\) There is also half of a parabola drawn on the \(xy\) plane with \(x\) being a function of \(y\text{,}\) this half parabola passes through both the circles intersecting them.
The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\) and the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(4\text{.}\) There are two planes drawn parallel to the \(yz\) plane and both of them have circles outlined inside the plane. The first plane at \(x =1\) has a smaller circle, while the one at \(x=4\) is bigger. There is also half of a parabola drawn on the \(xy\) plane with \(x\) being a function of \(y\text{,}\) this half parabola passes through both the circles intersecting the planes. This half parabola when rotated over the \(x\) axis gives a hollow dome that opens along the positive \(x\) axis.
We generalize the above principles to give the equations of surfaces formed by revolving curves about the coordinate axes.
Key Idea 11.1.24. Surfaces of Revolution, Part 1.
Let \(r\) be a radius function.
-
The equation of the surface formed by revolving \(y=r(x)\) or \(z=r(x)\) about the \(x\)-axis is \(y^2+z^2=r(x)^2\text{.}\)
-
The equation of the surface formed by revolving \(x=r(y)\) or \(z=r(y)\) about the \(y\)-axis is \(x^2+z^2=r(y)^2\text{.}\)
-
The equation of the surface formed by revolving \(x=r(z)\) or \(y=r(z)\) about the \(z\)-axis is \(x^2+y^2=r(z)^2\text{.}\)
Example 11.1.25. Finding equation of a surface of revolution.
Let \(y=\sin(z)\) on \([0,\pi]\text{.}\) Find the equation of the surface of revolution formed by revolving \(y=\sin(z)\) about the \(z\)-axis.
Solution 1.
Using Key Idea 11.1.24, we find the surface has equation \(x^2+y^2=\sin^2(z)\text{.}\) The curve is sketched in Figure 11.1.26.(a) and the surface is drawn in Figure 11.1.26.(b).
Note how the surface (and hence the resulting equation) is the same if we began with the curve \(x=\sin(z)\text{,}\) which is also drawn in Figure 11.1.26.(a).
The \(x\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\) and the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(3\text{.}\) Two functions \(x= \sin(z)\) and \(y= \sin(z)\) are shown. The two curves are perpendicular to each other as \(x=\sin(z)\) is drawn on the \(xz\) plane and \(y= \sin(z)\) is drawn on the \(yz\) plane. Both curves start at the origin and end at the same point \((0, \pi/2, 0)\text{.}\)
The \(x\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\) and the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(3\text{.}\) The function \(y= \sin(z)\) is rotated around the \(z\) axis and it forms a sphere with tapering top and bottom.
Solution 2. Video solution
This particular method of creating surfaces of revolution is limited. For instance, in Example 7.3.11 of Section 7.3 we found the volume of the solid formed by revolving \(y=\sin(x)\) about the \(y\)-axis. Our current method of forming surfaces can only rotate \(y=\sin(x)\) about the \(x\)-axis. Trying to rewrite \(y=\sin(x)\) as a function of \(y\) is not trivial, as simply writing \(x=\sin^{-1}(y)\) only gives part of the region we desire.
What we desire is a way of writing the surface of revolution formed by rotating \(y=f(x)\) about the \(y\)-axis. We start by first recognizing this surface is the same as revolving \(z=f(x)\) about the \(z\)-axis. This will give us a more natural way of viewing the surface.
A value of \(x\) is a measurement of distance from the \(z\)-axis. At the distance \(r\text{,}\) we plot a \(z\)-height of \(f(r)\text{.}\) When rotating \(f(x)\) about the \(z\)-axis, we want all points a distance of \(r\) from the \(z\)-axis in the \(xy\)-plane to have a \(z\)-height of \(f(r)\text{.}\) All such points satisfy the equation \(r^2=x^2+y^2\text{;}\) hence \(r=\sqrt{x^2+y^2}\text{.}\) Replacing \(r\) with \(\sqrt{x^2+y^2}\) in \(f(r)\) gives \(z=f(\sqrt{x^2+y^2})\text{.}\) This is the equation of the surface.
Key Idea 11.1.27. Surfaces of Revolution, Part 2.
Let \(z=f(x)\text{,}\) \(x\geq 0\text{,}\) be a curve in the \(xz\)-plane. The surface formed by revolving this curve about the \(z\)-axis has equation \(z=f\big(\sqrt{x^2+y^2}\big)\text{.}\)
Example 11.1.28. Finding equation of surface of revolution.
Solution.
Using Key Idea 11.1.27, the surface has equation \(z=\sin\big(\sqrt{x^2+y^2}\big)\text{.}\) The curve and surface are graphed in Figure 11.1.29.
The \(x\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-5\) to \(5\) and the \(z\) axis is drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\text{.}\) The curve \(z= \sin(x)\) is drawn in the \(xz\) plane, it is a wave with amplitude of \(z=1\text{.}\) The curve starts at the origin, curves up and reaches a peak close to \(x=2\text{,}\) then it decreases and crosses the \(x\) axis close to \(x=4\text{,}\) it decreases till it reaches a depth of \(z=-1\text{,}\) after which it increases again to meet the \(x\) axis close to \(x=6\text{.}\)
The surface of equation \(z= \sin(\sqrt {x^2 +y^2})\) is made by revolving the wave of formula \(z= \sin(x)\) about the \(z\) axis.
Subsection 11.1.6 Quadric Surfaces
Spheres, planes and cylinders are important surfaces to understand. We now consider one last type of surface, a quadric surface. The definition may look intimidating, but we will show how to analyze these surfaces in an illuminating way.
Definition 11.1.31. Quadric Surface.
A quadric surface is the graph of the general second-degree equation in three variables:
\begin{equation*}
Ax^2+By^2+Cz^2+Dxy+Exz+Fyz+Gx+Hy+Iz+J=0\text{.}
\end{equation*}
When the coefficients \(D\text{,}\) \(E\) or \(F\) are not zero, the basic shapes of the quadric surfaces are rotated in space. We will focus on quadric surfaces where these coefficients are 0; we will not consider rotations. There are six basic quadric surfaces: the elliptic paraboloid, elliptic cone, ellipsoid, hyperboloid of one sheet, hyperboloid of two sheets, and the hyperbolic paraboloid.
The axes are uncalibrated. There are two parabolas shown one in the plane \(x=0\) and the other in \(y=0\text{.}\) There is a circle drawn in the plane \(z=d\text{.}\) The elliptical paraboloid \(z= x^2/4 +y^2\) has both the parabolas and the circle included in the surface.
We study each shape by considering traces, that is, intersections of each surface with a plane parallel to a coordinate plane. For instance, consider the elliptic paraboloid \(z= x^2/4+y^2\text{,}\) shown in Figure 11.1.32. If we intersect this shape with the plane \(z=d\) (i.e., replace \(z\) with \(d\)), we have the equation:
\begin{align*}
d \amp = \frac{x^2}4+y^2.\\
\end{align*}
Divide both sides by \(d\text{:}\)
\begin{align*}
1 \amp = \frac{x^2}{4d} + \frac{y^2}{d}\text{.}
\end{align*}
This describes an ellipse — so cross sections parallel to the \(xy\)-coordinate plane are ellipses. This ellipse is drawn in the figure.
Now consider cross sections parallel to the \(xz\)-plane. For instance, letting \(y=0\) gives the equation \(z=x^2/4\text{,}\) clearly a parabola. Intersecting with the plane \(x=0\) gives a cross section defined by \(z=y^2\text{,}\) another parabola. These parabolas are also sketched in the figure.
Thus we see where the elliptic paraboloid gets its name: some cross sections are ellipses, and others are parabolas.
Such an analysis can be made with each of the quadric surfaces. We give a sample equation of each, provide a sketch with representative traces, and describe these traces.
The axes are uncalibrated. The elliptical parabola opens along the positive \(z\) axis.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=d\) | Parabola | |
| \(y=d\) | Parabola | |
| \(z=d\) | Ellipse |
The axes are uncalibrated. There are two parabolas shown one in the plane \(x=0\) and the other in \(y=0\text{.}\) There is a circle drawn in the plane \(z=d\text{.}\) The elliptical paraboloid has both the parabolas and the circle included in the surface. It opens along the positive \(z\) axis.
One variable in the equation of the elliptic paraboloid will be raised to the first power; above, this is the \(z\) variable. The paraboloid will “open” in the direction of this variable’s axis. Thus \(x= y^2/a^2+z^2/b^2\) is an elliptic paraboloid that opens along the \(x\)-axis. Multiplying the right hand side by \((-1)\) defines an elliptic paraboloid that “opens” in the opposite direction.
The axes are uncalibrated. Two hollow elliptic cones are drawn with vertices at the origin, one opening along the positive \(z\) axis and the other along the negative \(z\) axis.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=0\) | Crossed Lines | |
| \(y=0\) | Crossed Lines | |
| \(x=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(y=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(z=d\) | Ellipse |
The axes are uncalibrated. Two hollow elliptic cones are drawn with vertices at the origin, one opening along the positive \(z\) axis and the other along the negative \(z\) axis. The graph shows three traces, on the plane \(y=0\text{,}\) the trace is a straight line passing through the vertices of the cones, when the plane is \(z=d\) the trace is an ellipse.
The axes are uncalibrated. Two hollow elliptic cones are drawn with vertices at the origin, one opening along the positive \(z\) axis and the other along the negative \(z\) axis. A hyperbola is shown in the \(y=d\) plane, the two parts of the hyperbola are traced on the elliptic cone.
One can rewrite the equation as \(z^2-x^2/a^2-y^2/{b^2} = 0\text{.}\) The one variable with a positive coefficient corresponds to the axis that the cones “open” along.
The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated. Graph of an ellipsoid with centre at origin.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=d\) | Ellipse | |
| \(y=d\) | Ellipse | |
| \(z=d\) | Ellipse |
The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are uncalibrated. There are three ellipses drawn. The first one is on the \(xz\) plane, \(y=0\text{.}\) The second is on the \(yz\) plane, with \(x=0\text{.}\) The third on the \(xy\) plane, with \(z=0\text{.}\) Filling in the traces gives the ellipsoid.
If \(a=b=c\neq0\text{,}\) the ellipsoid is a sphere with radius \(a\text{;}\) compare to Key Idea 11.1.8.
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows a hyperboloid of one sheet.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(y=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(z=d\) | Ellipse |
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows a hyperboloid of one sheet. The hyperboloid of one sheet is drawn about the \(z\) axis. It appears to be a cylinder with a narrow middle. In the middle of the sheet there is a circle drawn on the plane \(z=o\text{.}\) There are two hyperbolas drawn on the plane \(x=0\) and \(y=0\text{.}\)
The one variable with a negative coefficient corresponds to the axis that the hyperboloid “opens” along.
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows a hyperboloid of two sheets.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(y=d\) | Hyperbola | |
| \(z=d\) | Ellipse |
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows a hyperboloid of two sheets. The hyperboloids of two sheets are drawn about the \(z\) axis. The first sheet opens along the positive \(z\) axis. The second sheet to the bottom opens along the negative \(z\) axis. Both plates have two hyperbolas drawn one in the \(zy\) plane and one in the \(xz\) plane. In the bottom sheet there is a circle drawn on the plane \(z=d\text{.}\)
The one variable with a positive coefficient corresponds to the axis that the hyperboloid “opens” along. In the case illustrated, when \(\abs{d}\lt \abs{c}\text{,}\) there is no trace.
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows a hyperbolic paraboloid.
| Plane | Trace | |
| \(x=d\) | Parabola | |
| \(y=d\) | Parabola | |
| \(z=d\) | Hyperbola |
The three axes are uncalibrated. There are two parabolas drawn, one in plane \(y=0\) opening up along the positive \(z\) axis in the \(yz\) plane and the other in \(x=0\) opening down along the negative \(z\) axis in the \(xz\) plane. Both parabolas have vertices at the origin. Filling the traces gives the hyperbolic paraboloid.
The three axes are uncalibrated. Graph shows the hyperbolic paraboloid along with two hyperbolas. There are two hyperbolas drawn, in plane \(z=d\text{.}\) For \(d>0\) the two hyperbolas opening up along the positive and negative \(x\) axis. For \(d<0\) the other hyperbola opens along the positive and negative \(y\) axis.
The parabolic traces will open along the axis of the one variable that is raised to the first power.
Example 11.1.33. Sketching quadric surfaces.
Sketch the quadric surface defined by the given equation.
-
\(\displaystyle y=\frac{x^2}{4}+\frac{z^2}{16}\)
-
\(\displaystyle x^2+\frac{y^2}{9}+\frac{z^2}{4}=1\)
-
\(\displaystyle \ds z=y^2-x^2\)
Solution 1.
-
\(\ds y=\frac{x^2}{4}+\frac{z^2}{16}\text{:}\) We first identify the quadric by pattern-matching with the equations given previously. Only two surfaces have equations where one variable is raised to the first power, the elliptic paraboloid and the hyperbolic paraboloid. In the latter case, the other variables have different signs, so we conclude that this describes a hyperbolic paraboloid. As the variable with the first power is \(y\text{,}\) we note the paraboloid opens along the \(y\)-axis. To make a decent sketch by hand, we need only draw a few traces. In this case, the traces \(x=0\) and \(z=0\) form parabolas that outline the shape.Graphing each trace in the respective plane creates a sketch as shown in Figure 11.1.34.(a). This is enough to give an idea of what the paraboloid looks like. The surface is filled in in Figure 11.1.34.(b).The \(x\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-4\) to \(4\) and the \(y\) axis is drawn from \(0\) to \(2\text{.}\) Two parabolas are drawn that are perpendicular to each other, one in the \(xy\) plane and the other in the \(yz\) plane. Both have vertices at origin.
(a) The three axes are uncalibrated. Two parabolas are drawn that are perpendicular to each other, one in the \(xy\) plane and the other in the \(yz\) plane. Both have vertices at origin. Filling in the trace gives the elliptic paraboloid.(b) Figure 11.1.34. Sketching an elliptic paraboloid -
\(\ds x^2+\frac{y^2}{9}+\frac{z^2}{4}=1:\) This is an ellipsoid. We can get a good idea of its shape by drawing the traces in the coordinate planes.\(x=0\text{:}\) The trace is the ellipse \(\ds\frac{y^2}{9}+\frac{z^2}{4}=1\text{.}\) The major axis is along the \(y\)-axis with length 6 (as \(b=3\text{,}\) the length of the axis is 6); the minor axis is along the \(z\)-axis with length 4.\(y=0\text{:}\) The trace is the ellipse \(\ds x^2+\frac{z^2}{4}=1\text{.}\) The major axis is along the \(z\)-axis, and the minor axis has length 2 along the \(x\)-axis. \(z=0\text{:}\) The trace is the ellipse \(\ds x^2+\frac{y^2}{9}=1\text{,}\) with major axis along the \(y\)-axis.Graphing each trace in the respective plane creates a sketch as shown in Figure 11.1.35.(a). Filling in the surface gives Figure 11.1.35.(b).The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\text{.}\) There are three ellipses drawn. The first one is on the \(xz\) plane, \(y=0\) with equation \(x^2 + z^2/4 =1\text{.}\) The second is on the \(yz\) plane, with \(x=0\) with the equation \(y^2/9 + z^2/4 =1\text{.}\) The third on the \(xy\) plane, with \(z=0\) and has an equation \(x^2 +y^2 /9 =1\text{.}\)
(a) The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\text{.}\) There are three ellipses drawn. The first one is on the \(xz\) plane, \(y=0\) with equation \(x^2 + z^2/4 =1\text{.}\) The second is on the \(yz\) plane, with \(x=0\) with the equation \(y^2/9 + z^2/4 =1\text{.}\) The third on the \(xy\) plane, with \(z=0\) and has an equation \(x^2 +y^2 /9 =1\text{.}\) Filling in the surface gives the ellipsoid.(b) Figure 11.1.35. Sketching an ellipsoid -
\(\ds z=y^2-x^2\text{:}\) This defines a hyperbolic paraboloid, very similar to the one shown in the gallery of quadric sections. Consider the traces in the \(y-z\) and \(x-z\) planes:Sketching these two parabolas gives a sketch like that in Figure 11.1.36.(a), and filling in the surface gives a sketch like Figure 11.1.36.(b).The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\text{.}\) There are two parabolas drawn, one in plane \(x=0\) with equation \(z= y^2\) opening up in the \(yz\) plane and the other in \(y=0\) with equation \(z=-x^2\) opening down in the \(xz\) plane. Both parabolas have vertices at the origin.
(a) The three axes are uncalibrated. There are two parabolas drawn, one in plane \(x=0\) with equation \(z= y^2\) opening up in the \(yz\) plane and the other in \(y=0\) with equation \(z=-x^2\) opening down in the \(xz\) plane. Both parabolas have vertices at the origin. Filling the traces gives the hyperbolic paraboloid.(b) Figure 11.1.36. Sketching a hyperbolic paraboloid
Solution 2. Video solution
Example 11.1.37. Identifying quadric surfaces.
Consider the quadric surface shown in Figure 11.1.38. Which of the following equations best fits this surface?
-
\(\displaystyle \ds x^2-y^2-\frac{z^2}{9}=0\)
-
\(\displaystyle \ds x^2-y^2-z^2=1\)
-
\(\displaystyle \ds z^2-x^2-y^2=1\)
-
\(\displaystyle 4x^2-y^2-\frac{z^2}9=1\)
The \(z\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\) and the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\text{.}\) The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\text{.}\) The hyperboloids of two sheets are drawn about the \(x\) axis. The first sheet has a centre at \(x =0.5\) and opens along the positive \(y\) axis. The second sheet has a centre at \(x=-0.5\) and opens along the negative \(y\) axis.
Solution.
The image clearly displays a hyperboloid of two sheets. The gallery informs us that the equation will have a form similar to \(\frac{z^2}{c^2}-\frac{x^2}{a^2}-\frac{y^2}{b^2}=1\text{.}\)
We can immediately eliminate option (a), as the constant in that equation is not 1.
The hyperboloid “opens” along the \(x\)-axis, meaning \(x\) must be the only variable with a positive coefficient, eliminating (c).
The hyperboloid is wider in the \(z\)-direction than in the \(y\)-direction, so we need an equation where \(c \gt b\text{.}\) This eliminates (b), leaving us with (d). We should verify that the equation given in (d), \(4x^2-y^2-\frac{z^2}9=1\text{,}\) fits.
We already established that this equation describes a hyperboloid of two sheets that opens in the \(x\)-direction and is wider in the \(z\)-direction than in the \(y\text{.}\) Now note the coefficient of the \(x\)-term. Rewriting \(4x^2\) in standard form, we have: \(\ds 4x^2 = \frac{x^2}{(1/2)^2}\text{.}\) Thus when \(y=0\) and \(z=0\text{,}\) \(x\) must be \(1/2\text{;}\) i.e., each hyperboloid “starts” at \(x=1/2\text{.}\) This matches our figure.
We conclude that \(\ds 4x^2-y^2-\frac{z^2}9=1\) best fits the graph.
This section has introduced points in space and shown how equations can describe surfaces. The next sections explore vectors, an important mathematical object that we’ll use to explore curves in space.
Exercises 11.1.7 Exercises
Terms and Concepts
1.
2.
3.
4.
Which quadric surface looks like a Pringles(TM) chip?
- Elliptic paraboloid
- Elliptic cone
- Ellipsoid
- Hyperboloid of one sheet
- Hyperboloid of two sheets
- Hyperbolic paraboloid
5.
Consider the hyperbola \(x^2-y^2=1\) in the plane. If this hyperbola is rotated about the \(x\)-axis, what quadric surface is formed?
6.
Consider the hyperbola \(x^2-y^2=1\) in the plane. If this hyperbola is rotated about the \(y\)-axis, what quadric surface is formed?
Problems
7.
The points \(A=(1,4,2)\text{,}\) \(B=(2,6,3)\) and \(C=(4,3,1)\) form a triangle in space. Find the distances between each pair of points and determine if the triangle is a right triangle.
8.
The points \(A=(1,1,3)\text{,}\) \(B=(3,2,7)\text{,}\) \(C=(2,0,8)\) and \(D = (0,-1,4)\) form a quadrilateral \(ABCD\) in space. Is this a parallelogram?
9.
10.
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, describe the region in space defined by the inequalities.
11.
\(x^2+y^2+z^2\lt 1\)
12.
\(0\leq x\leq 3\)
13.
\(x\geq 0,\ y\geq0, \ z\geq0\)
14.
\(y\geq 3\)
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, sketch the cylinder in space.
15.
\(z=x^3\)
16.
\(y=\cos(z)\)
17.
\(\ds \frac{x^2}{4}+\frac{y^2}{9}=1\)
18.
\(\ds y=\frac1x\)
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, give the equation of the surface of revolution described.
19.
Give the equation of the surface formed by revolving \(z=\frac{1}{1+y^2}\) in the \(yz\)-plane about the \(y\)-axis.
20.
Give the equation of the surface formed by revolving \(y=x^2\) in the \(xy\)-plane about the \(x\)-axis.
21.
Give the equation of the surface formed by revolving \(z=x^2\) in the \(xz\)-plane about the \(z\)-axis.
22.
Give the equation of the surface formed by revolving \(z=1/x\) in the \(xz\)-plane about the \(z\)-axis.
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, a quadric surface is sketched. Determine which of the given equations best fits the graph.
23.
The \(z\) and \(y\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\) and the \(x\) axis is drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\text{.}\) The \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-3\) to \(3\text{.}\) The elliptic paraboloid is shown with centre at the origin and it opens along the positive \(x\) axis.
24.
The axes are drawn from \(-1\) to \(1\text{.}\) Two hollow elliptic cones are drawn with vertices at the origin, one opening along the positive \(y\) axis and the other along the negative \(y\) axis.
25.
The three axes are uncalibrated. An ellipsoid is shown.
26.
The \(x\text{,}\) \(y\) and \(z\) axes are drawn from \(-2\) to \(2\text{.}\) The hyperboloid of two sheets is drawn about the \(y\) axis. The first sheet has a centre at \(y =1\) and opens along the positive \(y\) axis. The second sheet has a centre at \(y=-1\) and opens along the negative \(y\) axis.
Exercise Group.
In the following exercises, sketch the quadric surface.
27.
\(\ds z-y^2+x^2=0\)
28.
\(\ds z^2=x^2+\frac{y^2}4\)
29.
\(x=-y^2-z^2\)
30.
\(\ds 16x^2-16y^2-16z^2=1\)
31.
\(\ds \frac{x^2}9-y^2+\frac{z^2}{25}=1\)
32.
\(\ds 4x^2+2y^2+z^2=4\)
You have attempted of activities on this page.
