Antiderivative Definite Integrals

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the evaluation of definite integrals involving the antiderivative of sec(x). The user initially computes the antiderivative as sec(x)tan(x) + ln|sec(x) + tan(x)| + C and attempts to evaluate it between the bounds of -π/3 and 0, leading to confusion regarding the absolute value in logarithmic expressions. Another user clarifies that both answers are correct due to the properties of logarithms, specifically that ln(2-√3) equals -ln(2+√3). The conversation highlights common pitfalls in evaluating definite integrals and the importance of correctly applying logarithmic identities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of antiderivatives and definite integrals
  • Familiarity with the secant and tangent functions
  • Knowledge of logarithmic properties and identities
  • Basic calculus concepts, particularly integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of logarithms, focusing on absolute values in integrals
  • Practice evaluating definite integrals of trigonometric functions, particularly sec(x)
  • Learn about common errors in integration and how to avoid them
  • Explore advanced integration techniques, such as integration by substitution
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in calculus, particularly those focusing on integration techniques, as well as anyone seeking to clarify common mistakes in evaluating definite integrals involving trigonometric functions.

cathy
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Homework Statement

So I did an entire antiderivative, and ended with this part:

sec(x)tan(x) + ln|sec(x) + tan(x)| + C

I have to do this with the lower bound of -pi/3 and 0.
When I do it, I should be getting 2√3 + ln(2+√3)

But, I'm getting (0+0)-(2*-√3 + ln(2-√3))
Which would give me 2√3-ln(2-√3)

Will someone tell me where I'm going wrong?
Does it have to do with the absolute value bars?

Thanks in advance.
 
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cathy said:
Homework Statement

So I did an entire antiderivative, and ended with this part:

sec(x)tan(x) + ln|sec(x) + tan(x)| + C

I have to do this with the lower bound of -pi/3 and 0.
When I do it, I should be getting 2√3 + ln(2+√3)

But, I'm getting (0+0)-(2*-√3 + ln(2-√3))
Which would give me 2√3-ln(2-√3)

Will someone tell me where I'm going wrong?
Does it have to do with the absolute value bars?

Thanks in advance.

Hi cathy!

Both answers are correct.

$$\ln(2-\sqrt{3})=\ln\left(\frac{1}{2+\sqrt{3}}\right)=-\ln(2+\sqrt{3})$$
 
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Oh! Silly error on my end.
Thank you very much!
 
Wait, maybe another silly error on my end, but I'm having a similar problem.

The integral of secx dx with bounds of 0 and pi/4.
The antideriv of sec x is ln(secx+tanx)
so I plug everything in, and I am getting ln(sqrt2-1)
rather than the answer, which is ln(sqrt2+1)

Am I doing something wrong?
 
cathy said:
Wait, maybe another silly error on my end, but I'm having a similar problem.

The integral of secx dx with bounds of 0 and pi/4.
The antideriv of sec x is ln(secx+tanx)
Yes. :)
so I plug everything in, and I am getting ln(sqrt2-1)
Not sure how you get this, what is the value of ##\tan(\pi/4)##?
 
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oh my, it is 1 and not 0.
Sorry!

Thank you so much, once again Pranav-Arora.
I'm just a bit tired :)
Thanks!
 
cathy said:
oh my, it is 1 and not 0.
Sorry!

Thank you so much, once again Pranav-Arora.
I'm just a bit tired :)
Thanks!

Glad to help. :)
 

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