Integral Calculus
Area between two parabolas
MMTS_Full_Test_14
Grade 12

Question:

The area enclosed between the curves $y=ax^2$ and $x=ay^2$ ($a>0$) is 1 sq. unit. Then the value of $a$ is
(A) $\dfrac{1}{\sqrt3}$
(B) $\dfrac{1}{2}$
(C) 1
(D) $\dfrac{1}{3}$

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept: Curves intersect at $(0,0)$ and $(1/a,1/a)$. Area $=\int_0^{1/a}\!\left(\sqrt{x/a}-ax^2\right)dx=\dfrac{1}{3a^2}$. Set $=1\Rightarrow a=1/\sqrt3$.
Area $=1/(3a^2)=1\Rightarrow a=1/\sqrt3$.
Correct Answer: (A) $\dfrac{1}{\sqrt3}$

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