Antiderivative Definite Integrals

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the antiderivative of sec(x) and using it to evaluate the integral with specific bounds. The correct answer is ln(sec(x)+tan(x)) and the issue with getting the incorrect answer is due to a simple error in calculation. The conversation also briefly touches on a similar problem with a different antiderivative, but the issue is resolved with a correction in calculation.
  • #1
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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  • #2
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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  • #3
Oh! Silly error on my end.
Thank you very much!
 
  • #4
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?
 
  • #5
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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  • #6
oh my, it is 1 and not 0.
Sorry!

Thank you so much, once again Pranav-Arora.
I'm just a bit tired :)
Thanks!
 
  • #7
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. :)
 

1. What is an antiderivative?

An antiderivative is a function that, when differentiated, gives the original function. In other words, it is the reverse process of differentiation.

2. What is a definite integral?

A definite integral is a mathematical concept used to calculate the area under a curve on a graph. It is represented by the symbol ∫ and has upper and lower limits, indicating the range of values over which the area is being calculated.

3. How are antiderivatives and definite integrals related?

Antiderivatives and definite integrals are closely related as they both involve the concept of integration. The definite integral of a function is the antiderivative evaluated at the upper and lower limits, which gives the area under the curve.

4. How do you find the antiderivative of a function?

To find the antiderivative of a function, you need to use integration techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or partial fractions. These techniques allow you to find the general antiderivative, or a family of functions, which can be used to find specific solutions for a given problem.

5. What is the purpose of using antiderivatives and definite integrals?

Antiderivatives and definite integrals have various applications in mathematics, physics, and engineering. They are used to solve problems involving rates of change, motion, and optimization. They also have practical applications in calculating areas, volumes, and work done in a given system.

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