Integration: what variables can you move outside of the integrand?

In summary, Integral xdx is not the same as x times integral dx. If x is a function of the variable of integration, t, then the left depends upon exactly what function of t x is while the right is still x.
  • #1
tahayassen
270
1
[tex]1.\int { x } dx=x\int { 1 } dx\\ 2.\int { t } dx=t\int { 1 } dx\\ 3.\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ x } dt=x\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ 1 } dt[/tex]

Which of the equations are correct?
 
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  • #2
tahayassen said:
[tex]1.\int { x } dx=x\int { 1 } dx\\ 2.\int { t } dx=t\int { 1 } dx\\ 3.\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ x } dt=x\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ 1 } dt[/tex]

Which of the equations are correct?

3 and 2 are both correct.
 
  • #3
And 1 is incorrect. The following is a property of integrals:
##\int k~f(x)~dx = k\int f(x)~dx##, for k a constant, but there is no property that says you can move a variable across the integral sign.
 
  • #4
Mark44 said:
And 1 is incorrect. The following is a property of integrals:
##\int k~f(x)~dx = k\int f(x)~dx##, for k a constant, but there is no property that says you can move a variable across the integral sign.

Integral xdx is certainly not the same as x times integral dx.
 
  • #5
You can move constants (and so variables that are independent of the variable of integration and so are treated like constants in the integration) outside the integral.

tahayassen said:
[tex]1.\int { x } dx=x\int { 1 } dx[/tex]
No, x is the variable of integration so we cannot take it outside the integral.
The integral on the left is [itex]x^2/2+ C[/itex] and on the right [itex]x(x+ c)= x^2+ cx[/itex].

[tex] 2.\int { t } dx=t\int { 1 } dx[/tex]
If we know that t is independent of x, then both integrals are "tx+ C". If t is a function of x then the first is still "tx+ C" but the other depends upon exactly what function of x t is.

[tex] 3.\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ x } dt=x\int _{ x }^{ x+1 }{ 1 } dt[/tex]
If x is independent of the variable of integration, t, both of those are the same and are equal to x(x+1- x)= x. If x is a function of t, then the left depends upon exactly what function of t x is while the right is still x.

Which of the equations are correct?
 
  • #6
Thanks for the clear-up. :)
 

1. Can any variable be moved outside of the integrand in integration?

No, not all variables can be moved outside of the integrand. Only constants and independent variables can be moved outside of the integrand. Variables that are dependent on the integration variable cannot be moved.

2. Why is it beneficial to move variables outside of the integrand?

Moving variables outside of the integrand can help simplify the integration process and make it easier to solve the integral. It can also help identify patterns and make the integration more manageable.

3. Are there any restrictions or rules for moving variables outside of the integrand?

Yes, there are certain rules and restrictions for moving variables outside of the integrand. For example, when moving a variable outside of the integrand, its power must be divided by the new location of the variable. Additionally, the order of the variables must be maintained.

4. Can variables be moved outside of the integrand in all types of integration?

Yes, variables can be moved outside of the integrand in all types of integration, including definite and indefinite integrals. However, the process and rules may differ slightly depending on the type of integration.

5. How can moving variables outside of the integrand affect the final result of the integration?

Moving variables outside of the integrand can change the form and complexity of the integral, making it easier to solve. It can also help identify and simplify the integral, leading to a more accurate and efficient result.

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