Average Value of a Function

In summary, to determine the average value of a function over an interval, you integrate the function and divide by the length of the interval. In this problem, substitution and integration by parts can be used to solve for the average value of the given function over the interval [0,6].
  • #1
KingKai
34
0

Homework Statement



Determine the average value of the following function over the interval [0,6]

f(t) = (t2-1)e-0.5t

Homework Equations



1/(b-a) ∫ f(x) = {f(x)}

The Attempt at a Solution



Substitution?

let u = (t2-1)

du/dt = 2t

du/2t = dt

1/(6) ∫ u e-0.5t (du/2t)And here, I reach a roadblock.
 
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  • #2
so to get the average of the function you integrate the function and then divide by the interval length.
 
  • #3
Try a different technique.
 
  • #4
KingKai said:

Homework Statement



Determine the average value of the following function over the interval [0,6]

f(t) = (t2-1)e-0.5t

Homework Equations



1/(b-a) ∫ f(x) = {f(x)}

The Attempt at a Solution



Substitution?

let u = (t2-1)

du/dt = 2t

du/2t = dt

1/(6) ∫ u e-0.5t (du/2t)

And here, I reach a roadblock.
Use integration by parts, twice.
 

What is the average value of a function?

The average value of a function is a single value that represents the average output of the function over a given interval. It is also known as the mean value or the expected value of the function.

How do you calculate the average value of a function?

The average value of a function can be calculated by taking the definite integral of the function over the given interval and dividing it by the length of the interval.

What is the significance of the average value of a function?

The average value of a function is important because it provides a way to summarize the behavior of a function over a certain interval and can help in understanding the overall trend of the function.

Can the average value of a function be negative?

Yes, the average value of a function can be negative. This indicates that the function has a net output that is lower than zero over the given interval.

How does the average value of a function relate to the concept of the mean?

The average value of a function is essentially the same as the mean, as it represents the central tendency of the function over a given interval. However, the average value of a function can also be calculated for non-numerical functions, unlike the mean which is only applicable to numerical data.

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