Antiderivatives (where did I go wrong?)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the antiderivative of a function given its derivative, specifically f prime (t) = 2t - 3 sin t, with an initial condition f(0) = 5. The original poster attempts to derive the function f(t) but questions the correctness of their solution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the original poster's method of finding the constant of integration C and question the signs used in the calculations. There is a focus on the evaluation of cos(0) and its impact on the final expression for C.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct handling of signs in the expression for C, and there appears to be a productive exchange of ideas about the errors made in the initial attempt.

Contextual Notes

Participants are addressing specific arithmetic errors and assumptions made during the integration process, particularly regarding the evaluation of constants and the application of the antiderivative formulas.

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Where did I go wrong with my working? The answer in the book is
f(t) = t^2 + 3 cos t + 2

1. The problem statement: Find f for
f prime (t) = 2t - 3 sin t, f(0) = 5


2. Homework Equations :
Most General antiderivation: F(x) + C
Antidifferentiation formula: Function = sin x, Particular antiderivation = -cos x


3. My attempt at a solution

= [(2t^2)/2] -3 (-cos) t + C

= t^2 + 3 cos t + C

f(0) = t^2 + 3 cos t + C = 5

Therefore C = 5 - (0)^2 + 3 cos (0)
C = 5

Therefore f(t) = t^2 - 3 cos t + 5


Why is this answer wrong?
 
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Cos of 0 equals 1 so 3 cos0=3
 
And you subtracted 3*cos0 so it needs to be negative not positive.
 
Dustinsfl said:
Cos of 0 equals 1 so 3 cos0=3

Thank you so much, I understand now!
 
Dustinsfl said:
And you subtracted 3*cos0 so it needs to be negative not positive.

C = 5 - (0)^2 + 3 cos (0)
C = 5 - 0 - 3
C = 2

Ok, great , thanks
 
Good except you still have +3 cos but the next steps are you have the negative sign
 
Dustinsfl said:
Good except you still have +3 cos but the next steps are you have the negative sign

Careless mistakes on my part.

C = 5 - (0)^2 - 3 cos (0)
C = 5 -(3 * 1)
C = 5 - 3
C = 2
 

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