A very simple U-sub is wrecking my brain

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral of Sqrt[16-x^2]*x dx from 0 to 2, with a focus on the appropriate substitution methods for integration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of u-substitution and question the necessity of changing limits of integration. Some suggest considering trigonometric substitution as an alternative approach. There is also a discussion about whether the bounds were correctly adjusted during the substitution process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different substitution methods and clarifying the implications of changing limits during integration. Some have expressed confusion regarding the bounds and the appropriateness of the chosen method, while others have provided insights that seem to help clarify the situation.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of potential misunderstanding regarding the adjustment of integration limits when using substitution methods, as well as the initial oversight of a variable in the problem statement.

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Homework Statement



Integral Sqrt[16-x^2]*x dx from 0 to 2.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



First thing I do is a u-sub, so

u=16-x^2

du=-2xdx

I also my bounds change to upper=12 lower=16.

After I integrate and swap out my U, I get

-1/3*(16-x^2)^(3/2) from 16 to 12.

Am I using the wrong method?
 
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This is probably a stupid question, but why did you change the limits of integration?
 
Umm, this is actually a trig-substitution problem (which I guess is a class of u-substitution).

Try thinking of it in those terms.
 
Have you thought of trying a trig substitution?
 
Nabeshin said:
Umm, this is actually a trig-substitution problem (which I guess is a class of u-substitution).

Try thinking of it in those terms.

You sure it's necessary? I get an answer that matches my calculator without incorporating any trig.

EDIT: Oh.
 
You could do the problem using a u substitution, it's just easier to use the trig substitution.
 
I actually missed the *x in the problem the first glance through, but I still would go with trig substitution. Necessary, maybe not.
 
Are my bounds incorrect? I thought you had to adjust your bounds when using a usub.
 
You adjust if you keep the equation in terms of u, but if you substitute back in for x after integration, you retain the original x boundaries. Seems you substituted back into x and changed the boundaries, which doesn't work.
 
  • #10
Nabeshin said:
You adjust if you keep the equation in terms of u, but if you substitute back in for x after integration, you retain the original x boundaries. Seems you substituted back into x and changed the boundaries, which doesn't work.

This clears up a lot. Thanks. I got the correct answer now!
 
  • #11
That is one reason why it is a good idea to write the variable in the limits of integration:
\int_{x= 0}^2 \sqrt{16- x^2} xdx
after the substitution u= 16- x^2 becomes
-\frac{1}{2}\int_{u=16}^{12}u^{1/2}du
 

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