Integral Calculus: Fund Theorem Confusion

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus (FTC) and its application in finding the derivative of a specific integral function, g(x) = ∫₀ˣ√(1+t²)dt. Participants explore the interpretation of the theorem and the steps involved in differentiating the integral, while addressing confusion stemming from a textbook example.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the first part of the FTC and requests clarification on the steps to differentiate the integral function.
  • Another participant points out an error in the initial problem statement, suggesting that the derivative of g(x) would be zero if x does not appear in the integral.
  • After correcting the problem, a participant suggests using the FTC directly to find the derivative, asking for clarification on the function f(t) in this context.
  • One participant proposes deriving the result from first principles, providing a limit-based approach to find g'(x) and arriving at the conclusion that g'(x) = √(1+x²).
  • A participant questions the specific "first principle" used in the derivation process, indicating a need for clarity on the steps taken.
  • Another participant mentions they cannot assist due to having a different edition of the textbook, expressing hope that they do not encounter similar issues.
  • One participant critiques the original poster's (OP) understanding of the problem, asserting that the solution should be evident and suggesting that any confusion is not due to the textbook itself.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the clarity of the textbook example and the OP's understanding of the problem. There is no consensus on whether the book's explanation is sufficient or if the OP's confusion is justified.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note potential faults in the textbook, while others emphasize the need for a clearer understanding of the FTC and its application in this specific case. The discussion reflects varying levels of familiarity with the concepts involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying integral calculus, particularly those grappling with the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and its applications in differentiation of integral functions.

Alem2000
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Hello page...im taking integral calculus and we are past integration of improper integrals. I know how to use the fundamental theorem but i don't get the first part...[itex]\frac{d}{dx}\int^x_af(t)dt=f(x)[/itex]

the book used it in an example...find the dirivative of [tex]g(x)=\int_0^1\sqrt{1+t^2}dt[/tex]...the book goes on to tell you the answer but it show NO STEPS...it is James Stewart Calculus 2nd edition i believe if anyone has the same book..page 383..but anyway can some one go through the steps...please :redface:
 
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There is something wrong in the statement of the problem. You have g(x) = something, where x does not appear. As stated g'(x)=0.
 
sorry I copied down the problem wrong...this is the correct one


[tex]g(x)=\int_0^x\sqrt{1+t^2}dt[/tex]
 
just plug into the statement you gave of the ftc. this is a special case. i.e. what is f(t) here?
 
We can get it from first principles:
[tex]\frac {dg}{dx} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac {\int_0^{x+h} \sqrt{1+t^2} dt - \int_0^{x} \sqrt {1+t^2} dt}{h}[/tex]
[tex]\frac {dg}{dx} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac {\int_{x}^{x+h} \sqrt{1+t^2} dt}{h}[/tex]
[tex]\frac {dg}{dx} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \sqrt{1+x^2} \frac {\int_{x}^{x+h} dx}{h} = \sqrt {1+x^2}[/tex]
 
what "first principle" did you use in the next to last step?
 
I got the fifth edition, so I can't help you there. I just hope I don't encounted similar problems.
 
what problems do you think the OP encountered in the book? the solution is self evident and any problems the OP had are nothing to do with the book. the book has many faults, if it's the one i think it is, but that isn't one of them.
 

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