Disk Method
Definition
The disk method is a technique used in calculus to find the volume of a solid of revolution by integrating the cross-sectional areas of infinitesimally thin disks perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
Analogy
Imagine stacking up coins of different sizes on top of each other. The disk method calculates the total volume by adding up the volumes of all these individual coins.
Related terms
Washer Method: Similar to the disk method, but it involves subtracting the inner volume from the outer volume to find the total volume.
Revolution: Refers to rotating a curve or shape around an axis, which is necessary for using methods like disk and washer methods.
Cross-sectional area: The area formed when a solid is cut perpendicular to its axis, which is used in calculating volumes using methods like disk and washer methods.
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