Find the area between two curves - Help finding the limits of integration

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the area between the curves defined by the functions f(x) = x^(2/3) and g(x) = x^(3/2). Participants are focused on determining the limits of integration for this area calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the equation x^(2/3) = x^(3/2) to find limits of integration, with some questioning how to solve it. There are hints provided regarding the nature of the roots and discussions about factoring the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing hints and reasoning about the problem. Some have confirmed the reasoning behind potential solutions, while others have pointed out misunderstandings regarding the functions involved. There is a general movement towards identifying the correct limits of integration.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about algebraic manipulation and the implications of the functions involved. There is mention of checking answers against a textbook, indicating a reliance on external validation for correctness.

Asphyxiated
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Homework Statement



The curves are:

f(x)= x^{2/3}

and

g(x)=x^{3/2}

Homework Equations



I am assuming that:

x^{2/3} = x^{3/2}

is going to give me the limits of integration but I don't know how to solve for x on this equation.

Could also put it this way:

\sqrt[3]{x^{2}} = \sqrt{x^{3}}

but that doesn't help me much..

The Attempt at a Solution



no real attempt because I don't know what to do.
 
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I don't know how to do with algebra but, here's a hint:

What two numbers can be raised to any power and still equal themselves?
 
I would say, 0 and 1, right? because -1 will change signs if raised to an even power so that doesn't fit. If that's right what was the clue that that would be the answer?
 
Your reasoning is correct. Just subtract the two terms so the difference is equal to 0 and factor out x2/3. Then find the roots.
 
@VeeEight

I think you read the problem wrong because I can't factor out the x^(2/3) as the lines are x^3/2 and x^2/3, not the same, or else I could easily solve for x
 
Asphyxiated said:
@VeeEight

I think you read the problem wrong because I can't factor out the x^(2/3) as the lines are x^3/2 and x^2/3, not the same, or else I could easily solve for x

Perhaps this would be useful.

xm*xn=xm+n
 
If you have the equation x2/3 - x3/2 = 0, write this as x2/3(something - 1)
 
@VeeEight

So with:

x^{2/3}(x^{5/6}-1) = 0

can it be solved for x like so:

\sqrt[3]{x^{2}} = 0 \rightarrow x = 0

and

\sqrt[6]{x^{5}}-1 = 0

\sqrt[6]{x^{5}}=1 \rightarrow x =1

so the limits will be 0 to 1? (I know those are the right limits because when the integral is evaluated from 0 to 1 the answer checks out in the back of the book).
 
Yes, that is the correct approach.
 

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