Antiderivative Definite Integrals

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the evaluation of definite integrals involving the antiderivative of sec(x). Participants are examining their calculations and the implications of absolute values in logarithmic expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are sharing their attempts at evaluating definite integrals and questioning their results, particularly focusing on the use of absolute values in logarithmic terms. Some are also verifying specific values of trigonometric functions at given bounds.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes multiple participants reflecting on their calculations, with some expressing uncertainty about their results. There is acknowledgment of potential errors in reasoning, particularly regarding the evaluation of logarithmic expressions and trigonometric values.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework assignments, which may limit the information they can share or the methods they can use. The discussion highlights the importance of careful evaluation of bounds and the implications of absolute values in logarithmic 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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