# Math Help - volumes of revolution

1. ## volumes of revolution

Hello,

I perfectly understand both methods (discs and shells) my only problem is to know which one to use.

Let's say I had a problem it would be hard fo me to know which method to use... and would both work each time?

Thank you

2. It's more a matter of convenience. There's not a function I can think of that you couldn't weasle through with either method. A torus is a common example where shells are a little more stright forward. This is a good example where washer would be preferred.

3. Ok thaks so much, so basically both methods work each time but you could have a method which is easier to use!

4. Originally Posted by thehabsonice
Ok thaks so much, so basically both methods work each time but you could have a method which is easier to use!
Usually one method has easier integrations and/or one integral opposed to two integrals. Case in point revolve the region bound by

$y = x, y = 2-x, y = 0$ about the $y$ -axis

Shells: $2 \pi \int_0^1 x\cdot x\,dx + 2 \pi \int_1^2 x(2-x)\,dx$
Washers $\pi \int_0^1 (2-y)^2-y^2\, dy$