Antiderivative and Integral Calculus: Solving for the Correct Answer

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the antiderivative of the integral \(\int (X-1) \sqrt{X} \, dx\), which falls under the subject area of integral calculus. Participants are exploring various approaches to solve the problem, particularly in the context of multiple-choice answers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss distributing \(\sqrt{x}\) and the implications of using substitution methods. There are attempts to clarify the steps involved in finding the antiderivative, including questions about the rules for multiplying variables with exponents.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing hints and questioning each other's approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding the distribution of terms and the application of integral rules, but there is no explicit consensus on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the constraints of a multiple-choice format, which raises questions about the effectiveness of such questions in assessing understanding of integration. Participants express surprise at the format and discuss its implications for learning calculus.

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Homework Statement


[tex]\int[/tex] (X-1) [tex]\sqrt{X}[/tex] dx


The Attempt at a Solution


It is multiple choice, I believe the answer is either (2/5)x^(5/2)-(2-3)x^(3/2)+c or
(1/2)x^2+2x^(3/2)-x+c

I have tried to find the derivatives of both these answers yet neither of them gave me the correct antidrivatives. I must be doing something wrong. To do it the right way I have done the u's but I just can't figure it out.
 
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[tex]\int(x-1)\sqrt xdx[/tex]

What was your first step?

Hint: Distribute the [tex]\sqrt x[/tex]
 
I distributed the [tex]\sqrt{x}[/tex] and replaced with u's I then got

[tex]\int[/tex] u-u^(1/2) This let's see where the -2/3x^(3/2) comes from but I still don't understand where the 2/5x^(5/2) comes from.
 
You don't need to replace with u's. What are the rules for multiplying variables with the same base with exponents?
 
Thank you, I forgot how to distribute for a second.
 
This seems a fairly straightforward case of multiplying out the brackets and solving using the sum rule of integrals:

[tex]\int \left(f \pm g\right) \,dx = \int f \,dx \pm \int g \,dx\rightarrow[/tex]

[tex]\int (x-1)\sqrt{x}\,dx\rightarrow \int x^{\frac{3}{2}}-x^{\frac{1}{2}}\,dx=\frac{2}{5}x^{\frac{5}{2}}-\frac{2}{3}x^{\frac{3}{2}}+c[/tex]

No need to use the u unless the question asks you to? Or am I missing something here?
 
Last edited:
I'm quite surprised they have multiple-choice anti derivative questions! I mean, if one doesn't really know how to integrate it they can just differentiate every option and see which one matches.
 
Gib Z said:
I'm quite surprised they have multiple-choice anti derivative questions! I mean, if one doesn't really know how to integrate it they can just differentiate every option and see which one matches.

It sounds like calculus for dummies. :smile: I've never heard of multiple choice exams either? Not in A' Level or anywhere else?
 

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