Evaluating a Definite Integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the definite integral ∫ln(x+1)/(x+1)²dx from a=1 to b=2. Participants are exploring the application of integration techniques, particularly integration by parts and variable substitution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of substitution with u = (x+1) and the implications for the limits of integration. There are questions about the correct application of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and the handling of the resulting expressions.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided feedback on the original poster's approach, suggesting that the limits of integration need to be adjusted after substitution. Others have pointed out potential errors in the integration process and the evaluation of terms. The discussion continues with attempts to clarify these points and explore different methods.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing examination of the assumptions made during the substitution process and the handling of limits, with some participants expressing confusion over the correct application of integration techniques.

Saterial
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Homework Statement


∫ln(x+1)/(x+1)2dx from a=1, b=2

(Answer is -ln3/3+ln2/2+1/6)

Homework Equations


∫fdg=fg-∫gdf


The Attempt at a Solution


Let u = (x+1), du=dx

∫lnu/u2du
Let f=lnu , df = 1/udu, g=-1/u, dg=1/u2du

=-lnu/u+∫1/u2du
=[-lnu+1/u] 1->2

Using Fundamental Theorem of Calculus plug in a,b

=[-ln(2+1)/(2+1)-(-ln(1+1)/(1+1)]
=-ln3/3+ln2/2

What did I miss in order for me not to get 1/6 in the answer? Help would be great!

Thanks
 
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When you used a change of variable right at the beginning of u= x+1, you have to evaluate your limits of integration for the new variable. Ie after using parts, you should integrate between 3 and 2.
 
Saterial said:

Homework Statement


∫ln(x+1)/(x+1)2dx from a=1, b=2

(Answer is -ln3/3+ln2/2+1/6)

Homework Equations


∫fdg=fg-∫gdf


The Attempt at a Solution


Let u = (x+1), du=dx

∫lnu/u2du
Let f=lnu , df = 1/udu, g=-1/u, dg=1/u2du

=-lnu/u+∫1/u2du
=[-lnu+1/u] 1->2

Using Fundamental Theorem of Calculus plug in a,b

=[-ln(2+1)/(2+1)-(-ln(1+1)/(1+1)]
=-ln3/3+ln2/2

What did I miss in order for me not to get 1/6 in the answer? Help would be great!

Thanks


CAF123 said:
When you used a change of variable right at the beginning of u= x+1, you have to evaluate your limits of integration for the new variable. Ie after using parts, you should integrate between 3 and 2.

No, you don't have to evaluate at the new limits when you do a change of variable. If you "undo" the substitution, you can use the original limits.

∫lnu/u2du
Let f=lnu , df = 1/udu, g=-1/u, dg=1/u2du

=-lnu/u+∫1/u2du
=[-lnu+1/u]
You are missing a u in the denominator of the first term, so it should be -ln(u)/u.

Undo the substitution to get -ln(x + 1)/(x+1) + 1/(x + 1) and evaluate at 2 and 1, as usual, and you'll get the answer you showed.
 
Thanks for the replies!

I tried out both methods but did not have any luck. With the first method provided by CAF123. I was unable to get an answer close to what it should be. With Mark's method. I received an answer of -ln3/3+ln2/2+2. I still cannot find where I am going wrong to not get 1/6.
 
Saterial said:
...

The Attempt at a Solution


Let u = (x+1), du=dx

∫lnu/u2du
Let f=lnu , df = 1/udu, g=-1/u, dg=1/u2du

=-lnu/u+∫1/u2du

What is [itex]\displaystyle \int \frac{1}{u^2}\,du\ ?[/itex]

(You have a sign error.)

=[-lnu+1/u] 1->2
...
 
Last edited:
In the end, you should be integrating -ln(u)/u -1/u with upper limit 3, lower limit 2.
Or as Mark44 said, integrate -ln(x+1)/(x+1) -1/(x+1) with upper limit 2, lower limit 1.
(To Mark44: I understood this perfectly, I think I just misinterpreted what the last line was in the OP's attempt).
Many thanks.
 
How come? isn't that suppose to be ∫gdf? In which, pulling out the negative will make the integral become positive and 1/u^2du.
 
Correct, but the integral of 1/u^2 is -1/u
 

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