Error in taking the derivative of an integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the process of taking the derivative of an integral, specifically involving the integral of a polynomial function with variable limits. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the application of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus when the variable appears in the lower limit of integration.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of having a variable in the lower bound of the integral and question whether this requires a sign change in the derivative process. There are attempts to evaluate the integral and its derivative, with some participants providing their calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their interpretations and calculations. There is a recognition of the complexity involved in the problem, and some participants suggest alternative methods to approach the integral, indicating a productive exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the need to use specific formulas or methods to evaluate the integral, hinting at constraints imposed by homework rules or the nature of the problem itself.

jesuslovesu
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I know that it's 6x^2 - 2 but when I'm trying take the derivative of the integral shouldn't I have to multiply each term by -1 because the x is in the lower bound? It gives a wrong answer, so am I doing something wrong or is it just that I'm not supposed to take the opposite in this case?

<br /> \[ \int_x^{-1} (2-6t^2)\,dt\] <br /> <br /> -1 * 2(-1 - x) - -1*6*(-1-x^3)/3
 
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jesuslovesu said:
I know that it's 6x^2 - 2 but when I'm trying take the derivative of the integral shouldn't I have to multiply each term by -1 because the x is in the lower bound? It gives a wrong answer, so am I doing something wrong or is it just that I'm not supposed to take the opposite in this case?

<br /> \[ \int_x^{-1} (2-6t^2)\,dt\] <br /> <br /> -1 * 2(-1 - t) - -1*6*(-1-t^3)/3<br /> <br /> <br />

\int_x^{-1}(2-6t^2) dt
(2t -2t^3)|_x^{-1}
 
jesuslovesu said:
I know that it's 6x^2 - 2 but when I'm trying take the derivative of the integral shouldn't I have to multiply each term by -1 because the x is in the lower bound? It gives a wrong answer, so am I doing something wrong or is it just that I'm not supposed to take the opposite in this case?

<br /> \[ \int_x^{-1} (2-6t^2)\,dt\] <br /> <br /> -1 * 2(-1 - t) - -1*6*(-1-t^3)/3<br /> <br /> <br />

\int_x^{-1}(2-6t^2) dt
(2t -2t^3)|_x^{-1}
[2(-1)-2(-1)^3]-[2x-2x^3]
2x^3-2x

-Dan
 
In this case unfortunately I have to do it the long way using

c*(b-a) and (b^3-a^3)/3
 
jesuslovesu said:
In this case unfortunately I have to do it the long way using

c*(b-a) and (b^3-a^3)/3

It's the same thing, just rearrange the terms:

(2t -2t^3)|_x^{-1} = 2(-1-x)-2[(-1)^3-x^3]

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
\int_x^{-1}(2-6t^2) dt
(2t -2t^3)|_x^{-1}
[2(-1)-2(-1)^3]-[2x-2x^3]
2x^3-2x

-Dan
May I suggest you NOT to give out COMPLETE solutions?
 

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