Evaluate the Improper integral [4,13] 1/(x-5)^(1/3)

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The discussion centers on evaluating the improper integral from 4 to 13 of the function 1/(x-5)^(1/3). The integral is split into two parts due to the discontinuity at x=5, with limits approaching 5 from both sides. The user successfully applies u-substitution to transform the integrals but encounters confusion regarding the evaluation of (-1)^(2/3), which is clarified as being equal to 1. This resolution confirms that the integral can be properly evaluated despite the initial uncertainty.

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Homework Statement



Evaluate the Improper integral [4,13] 1/(x-5)1/3

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


IMG_3094.JPG

In step 1, I split the integral into two separate integrals because at x=5, it would be undefined. I made the first limit approach 5 from the left and the second limit approach five from the right.

For step 2, I did u substitution to prepare to integrate. Since I did the substitution, I plugged the old intervals into u = x - 5 to get the new ones.

For step 3, I rewrote both integrals in terms of u du and brought the u^(1/3) from the denominator to the numerator for easier integration. I also added the new intervals in.

In step 4, I integrated both integrals.

Step 5 is where I'm not sure what to do. I plugged in the values and that is what I ended up with but in the first parentheses, the second value has a (-1)2/3 which is undefined. The (R-5)'s will equal 0 and cancel those fractions out but I don't know how to handle the (-1)2/3.
 
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ThatOneGuy said:

Homework Statement



Evaluate the Improper integral [4,13] 1/(x-5)1/3

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


View attachment 81908
In step 1, I split the integral into two separate integrals because at x=5, it would be undefined. I made the first limit approach 5 from the left and the second limit approach five from the right.

For step 2, I did u substitution to prepare to integrate. Since I did the substitution, I plugged the old intervals into u = x - 5 to get the new ones.

For step 3, I rewrote both integrals in terms of u du and brought the u^(1/3) from the denominator to the numerator for easier integration. I also added the new intervals in.

In step 4, I integrated both integrals.

Step 5 is where I'm not sure what to do. I plugged in the values and that is what I ended up with but in the first parentheses, the second value has a (-1)2/3 which is undefined. The (R-5)'s will equal 0 and cancel those fractions out but I don't know how to handle the (-1)2/3.
##(-1)^{2/3}## is defined -- its value is 1.

You can work with it either as ##[(-1)^2]^{1/3} = 1^{1/3} = 1## or as ##[(-1)^{1/3}]^2 = (-1)^2 = 1##.
 
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