Integrating Equation 1: Understanding the Answer

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the integration of the equation u = f(x) + f(y) and the confusion surrounding the application of the mixed derivative theorem. The user initially misinterprets the integration process, leading to the incorrect conclusion that integrating with respect to y and then x yields u = xf(x) + f(y). The correct interpretation, as clarified, is that integrating ∂u/∂x = f(x) results in u = f(x) + g(y), where g(y) is an arbitrary function of y. This distinction is crucial for understanding the nature of partial derivatives and integration in multivariable calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of multivariable calculus concepts
  • Familiarity with partial derivatives and the mixed derivative theorem
  • Knowledge of integration techniques for functions of multiple variables
  • Experience with mathematical notation and terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mixed derivative theorem in detail
  • Learn about the integration of multivariable functions
  • Explore the concept of arbitrary functions in integration
  • Review examples of integrating partial differential equations
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of integration in the context of multivariable functions.

humphreybogart
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I am working my way through a textbook, and whenever this equation is solved (integrated), the answer is given as:

u = f(x) + f(y)

I don't understand it. If I integrate it once (with respect to y, say), then I obtain:

∂u/∂x = f(x) -----eq.1

If I integrate again (this time with respect to x), then I obtain:

u = xf(x) + f(y)

I know that this can't be correct because the mixed derivative theorem says that if I went the other way (integrating with respect to x and then y), I should get the same answer. But I can't see how integrating eq.1 doesn't produce and 'x' infront of the arbitrary function.
 
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1) ## \int f(x) dx \neq xf(x) ##
2) ## \frac {\partial u}{\partial x}=F(x) \Rightarrow u=\underbrace{\int F(x) dx}_{f(x)}+g(y)\Rightarrow u=f(x)+g(y) ##.
 
Excellent. Got it now. Not seeing 1) is my fault. Not showing 2) in the working is the textbook's. :P
 
humphreybogart said:
I am working my way through a textbook, and whenever this equation is solved (integrated), the answer is given as:

u = f(x) + f(y)
Wouldn't it be u = f(x) + g(y)? It wouldn't be the same function for both.
 

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