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

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the area between the curves defined by the functions f(x) = x^(2/3) and g(x) = x^(3/2). The limits of integration are determined by solving the equation x^(2/3) = x^(3/2), which yields the roots x = 0 and x = 1. Participants confirm that these limits are correct, as the integral evaluated from 0 to 1 matches the solution provided in the textbook. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly factoring and solving polynomial equations to find intersection points.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial equations and their roots
  • Familiarity with integration and area under curves
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation and factoring techniques
  • Basic understanding of functions and their graphs
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  • Study polynomial root-finding techniques in algebra
  • Learn about definite integrals and their applications in calculating areas
  • Explore the properties of power functions and their graphs
  • Practice solving equations involving exponents and roots
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Students studying calculus, particularly those learning about integration and finding areas between curves, as well as educators looking for examples of polynomial equations in real-world applications.

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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