Evaluate Integral \int_{-1}^1 (x^5 + 3) \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral \(\int_{-1}^1 (x^5 + 3) \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx\) without performing any computations. The subject area pertains to calculus, specifically integral calculus and properties of even and odd functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to break down the integral into two parts, identifying one as an odd function and the other as an even function. Some participants question whether discussing geometric interpretations of the integral aligns with the requirement to avoid computations. Others suggest that the focus should be on understanding the meaning of integration without performing calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different interpretations of the problem's constraints, particularly regarding what constitutes a computation. There is a recognition of the geometric nature of the function involved, and some guidance is offered on how to approach the problem conceptually rather than computationally.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the need to avoid substitution or integration by parts, indicating specific constraints on the methods allowed for this problem. Additionally, there are technical discussions regarding the use of LaTeX for formatting mathematical expressions, which may affect participants' ability to communicate their ideas effectively.

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Homework Statement


Evaluate [tex]\int_{-1}^1 (x^5 + 3) \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx[/tex] without doing any computations.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\int_{-1}^1 (x^5 + 3) \sqrt{1 - x^2}dx = \int_{-1}^1 x^5 \sqrt{1-x^2} dx + \int_{-1}^1 3 \sqrt{1 - x^2}[/tex].

[tex]x^5 \sqrt{1 - x^2}[/tex] is an odd function and [tex]3 \sqrt{1 - x^2}[/tex] is an even function. So obviously [tex]\int_{-1}^1 x^5 \sqrt{1-x^2} dx = 0[/tex] and [tex]\int_{-1}^1 3 \sqrt{1-x^2} dx = 3 \int_{-1}^1 \sqrt{1-x^2} dx = 6 \int_0^1 \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx[/tex]. And so:

[tex]\int_{-1}^1 (x^5 + 3) \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx = 6 \int_0^1 \sqrt{1 - x^2} dx[/tex].

If I am to do this without any computations, then this is the closest answer I could give (that I could think of). Is this answer acceptable?
 
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I'm going to guess that they want you to handle the sqrt(1-x^2) by thinking about the geometry of the graph, and using a geometry formula.
 
Okay, I see what to do now. But wouldn't that still be a computation? Or do you think they mean don't do any contributions regarding the given integral?
 
[tex]\sqrt{1-x^{2}}[/tex] is the equation for a semicircle of radius 1 (should be self explanatory from here)
 
I think they mean don't use substitution or integration by parts to actually evaluate the integral. Think about what integration means, and what zcd said, and the answer pops out at you
 
Got'cha. Thanks guys
 
is there a way u can include all the integral and square root symbols in here without using the ALT. (ALT way does not work with my qosmio.)??
 
Brisingr24 said:
is there a way u can include all the integral and square root symbols in here without using the ALT. (ALT way does not work with my qosmio.)??
No one is using ALT characters, if that's what you mean. They are using LaTeX. Most likely your browser doesn't support it.
 
im using the latest function of firefox and what is LaTex...??
 
  • #10
LaTeX is a scripting language that is used to text formatting, primarily for math and other scientific typesetting. With it, you can format integrals, limits, fractions, arrays, and many other things so that they appear as they do in textbooks.

I don't use Firefox, but it might be that there is a setting so that script isn't executed in Web pages. If so, that would probably prevent Firefox from rendering LaTeX script.
 

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