Final answer:
To convert the polar equation r = 9 sec(θ) to Cartesian coordinates, we use trigonometric identities and algebra to arrive at x = (x² + y²)/9. Further simplification and completing the square reveals that the equation describes a circle with a radius of 9/2, centered at the point (9/2, 0).
Step-by-step explanation:
To find a Cartesian equation for the given polar equation r = 9 sec(θ), we convert from polar to Cartesian coordinates. In Cartesian coordinates, r is the distance from the origin to the point (x, y), so we have r = √(x² + y²). Secant is the reciprocal of cosine, so sec(θ) = 1/cos(θ). From trigonometry, we know that cos(θ) = x/r. Thus, we can write the equation as r = 9/(x/r), which simplifies to r² = 9x.
Solve for x to get the Cartesian equation: x = r²/9. Substituting r with √(x² + y²), we arrive at x = (x² + y²)/9. Multiplying both sides by 9 gives us 9x = x² + y². Rearranging terms leads to x² - 9x + y² = 0. Completing the square for the x terms gives us x² - 9x + (9/2)² = (9/2)² - y². Therefore, the equation is (x - 9/2)² + y² = (9/2)², which describes a circle of radius 9/2 centered at (9/2, 0).