Finding Area between 2 functions

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    Area Functions
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the area between the curves defined by the functions \(y = x^2\) and \(y = \frac{2}{x^2 + 1}\). The points of intersection are established as -1 and 1, indicating symmetry in the area calculation. The integral to solve is \(2\int_{0}^{1} \left(\frac{2}{x^2 + 1} - x^2\right) dx\), which simplifies using the standard integral \(\int \frac{dx}{x^2 + 1} = \arctan(x)\). The solution involves applying this integral to find the area between the curves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of definite integrals
  • Familiarity with the concept of area between curves
  • Knowledge of trigonometric integrals, specifically \(\arctan(x)\)
  • Basic skills in u-substitution for integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of definite integrals in calculating areas between curves
  • Learn about the properties of symmetry in integrals
  • Explore advanced techniques in u-substitution for integrals
  • Review the derivation and applications of the \(\arctan(x)\) integral
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in calculus, mathematicians focusing on integral calculus, and anyone interested in understanding the area calculation between curves.

tmt1
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Hi,

I have this problem to find the area between 2 curves:

$y = x^2$

and

$y = \frac{2}{x^2 +1}$

I found that the points of intersection are -1 and 1 and it is symmetrical.

I get
$2\int_{0}^{1} \ \frac{1}{x^2 + 1} - x^2 dx$which I am unable to solve. I have tried u-substitution but I end up getting mixed up.

Thanks
 
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There's a standard integral involved:
$$\int \frac{dx}{x^2+1} = \arctan(x)$$

I think you can figure out the answer right now ;)
 

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