Definite Integral of 1/x from 0 to 1 problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the evaluation of the definite integral of the function 1/x from 0 to 1, highlighting the symmetry across the line y=x. The user explores the relationship between the integral from 0 to 1 and the integral from 1 to infinity, concluding that both integrals are unbounded due to the behavior of the natural logarithm as x approaches 0. The final resolution indicates that the geometric interpretation of x=0 is critical in understanding the limits involved in the integral evaluation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of definite integrals and limits in calculus.
  • Familiarity with the properties of logarithmic functions, specifically ln(x).
  • Knowledge of symmetry in functions and geometric interpretations in calculus.
  • Basic skills in manipulating integrals and evaluating limits.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of improper integrals, particularly those involving logarithmic functions.
  • Learn about the geometric interpretations of limits and their implications in calculus.
  • Explore the concept of symmetry in integrals and how it affects evaluation.
  • Investigate the behavior of ln(x) as x approaches 0 and its implications in calculus.
USEFUL FOR

Students of calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone interested in advanced integral evaluation and geometric interpretations in mathematical analysis.

TylerH
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Given that 1/x is symetric across y=x, why can't we say [tex]\int^1_0 1/x - x dx= \int^\infty_1 1/x + x dx[/tex]? Geometrically, it makes sense, but ln(0) is clearly undefined.
 
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from 1 to infinity the integral is unboundedly large. ln(x) tends to -infinity as x tends to 0, so the other integral is also unboundedly large. I think there's nothing wrong with saying the areas are equal
 
Yeah... I should have waited to post. I solved it and got x=0, but I'm not sure that means anything...

[tex]\int^1_0 (1/x - x)dx = \int^\infty_1 dx/x + \int^1_0 xdx[/tex]
[tex]\right[lnx\left]^1_0 - x^2/2 = \right[lnx\left]^\infty_1 + x^2/2[/tex]
[tex]ln1 - \lim_{x \to 0+}lnx = \lim_{x \to \infty}lnx + ln1 + x^2[/tex]
[tex]-\lim_{x \to 0+}lnx = \lim_{x \to \infty}lnx + x^2[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to \infty}lnx + \lim_{x \to 0+}lnx + x^2 = 0[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to \infty}(lnx + ln1/x)+x^2=0[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to \infty}\frac{x}{x}+x^2=0[/tex]
and so on...

What is the geometric interpretation of x=0?
 

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