Integral calculation problem

In summary: Thanks so much for your help!In summary, there was a discussion about the correctness of the integral of 1/(3x+1)=1/3ln(x+1/3). The conversation concluded that both 1/3 ln(x+1/3) and 1/3 ln(3x+1) are acceptable solutions with just an arbitrary constant difference. It was also advised to not solely rely on computer programs for mathematical results.
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  • #2
alingy1 said:
http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=integral+of+1/(3x+1)=1/3ln(x+1/3)

Why is 1/3 ln((x+1/3)) not right?

1/(3x+1)=(1/3)(1/(x+1/3))

Use substitution u=x+1/3, du=dx.

Why is this wrong?

##\frac{1}{3 ln(x+1/3)}## isn't right. ##\frac{1}{3} ln(x+1/3)## is right. Which one are your trying to write anyway? Use parentheses if you don't want to use TeX!
 
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  • #3
Yes, the latter is the one! But, the computer program says it is wrong! Am I going crazy?
 
  • #4
the wolfram alpha input (link) was: integral of 1/(3x+1)=1/3ln(x+1/3)
the output actually tells you why they think this relation is false.

Namely: ##\ln\big(3x+1\big)\neq\ln\big(x+\frac{1}{3}\big)##

But it doesn't have to be - equal, that is - since this is an indefinite integral, the two proposed solutions need only be the same to within an arbitrary constant. This is easy to show:

##\ln[x+\frac{1}{3}]=\ln[\frac{1}{3}(3x+1)]=\ln[3x+1]-\ln(3) = \ln[3x+1]+c##

... you have to be careful with indefinite integrals.
 
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  • #5
Awesome! That's what's been missing! I spent an hour just on this!
 
  • #6
Don't trust the machines.

You could have seen their result by using the substitution u=3x+1.
 
  • #7
Exactly, both are two acceptable results!
 

1. What is an integral calculation problem?

An integral calculation problem is a mathematical problem in which the goal is to find the area under a curve or the volume of a complex shape. It involves using techniques such as integration to solve for the exact value of the area or volume.

2. How is an integral calculation problem different from other mathematical problems?

An integral calculation problem is different from other mathematical problems because it involves finding the exact value of a continuous function, rather than just a single point or value. It also requires a different set of techniques and formulas to solve.

3. What are some common applications of integral calculation problems?

Integral calculation problems have a wide range of applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, economics, and statistics. Some common applications include finding the area under a velocity-time curve to determine an object's displacement, calculating the volume of a three-dimensional shape for architectural or engineering purposes, and determining the probability of a certain event occurring in statistics.

4. Are there different methods for solving integral calculation problems?

Yes, there are different methods for solving integral calculation problems, such as the fundamental theorem of calculus, integration by parts, substitution, and trigonometric substitution. The method used depends on the complexity of the problem and the type of function being integrated.

5. What skills are needed to solve integral calculation problems?

Solving integral calculation problems requires a strong understanding of calculus, particularly integration techniques and concepts such as antiderivatives, definite and indefinite integrals, and the properties of integrals. It also requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills to apply these concepts to real-world situations.

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