How to Integrate x*ln(2x) and x^2/(x^2-4)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating two functions: \( \int x \ln(2x) \, dx \) and \( \int \frac{x^2}{x^2-4} \, dx \). Participants are exploring methods of integration and clarifying concepts related to these integrals.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to begin the integration process for both integrals, specifically questioning the use of integration by parts. Other participants suggest starting points and provide hints for approaching the second integral.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hints and guidance on how to approach the integrals, particularly suggesting integration by parts for the first integral and a breakdown of the second integral. There is an ongoing exploration of these suggestions, with participants sharing their attempts and seeking further clarification.

Contextual Notes

The original poster raises additional questions about the meanings of "converge" and "diverge" in the context of integrals, as well as the setup for calculating volumes of solids of revolution, indicating a broader context of learning beyond the immediate integrals.

lastdayx52
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a. [itex] \int x*ln(2x) dx [/itex]
b. [itex] \int \frac{x^2}{x^2-4} dx [/itex]

My Attempt:
a. I have abs. no clue how to start it off. Do you start it off using integration by parts?
b. Same with this. I don't know how to start it off.

"Random" Questions:
1) What does "converge" and "diverge" mean? i.e. Another question asks "Determine if each integral converges or diverges". I can do the integrals, but I'm not sure what its asking. One results in the answer being pi/3, the other results in infinity.
2) When the question tells you to setup an integral for a volume of a solid generated when the region is rotated about the line x=-2 using cylindrical shells, you just do:
[itex]\pi *<br /> \int (f(x)+2)^2 dx [/itex]
Correct?

Thanks!

P.S. I'm not asking for answers, but rather how to start them off. Maybe 1 or 2 beginning steps in integrating these? =D
 
Last edited:
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Hi lastdayx52, welcome to PF:smile:

Let's start with a) and b)... For a) try integration by parts...For b), hint: [itex]x^2=(x^2-4)+4[/itex]:wink:

Give it a shot and post your attempt if you require further assistance.
 
gabbagabbahey said:
Hi lastdayx52, welcome to PF:smile:

Let's start with a) and b)... For a) try integration by parts...For b), hint: [itex]x^2=(x^2-4)+4[/itex]:wink:

Give it a shot and post your attempt if you require further assistance.

Got a:
[itex]\frac{x^2*(2*ln(2)-1)}{4}+\frac{x^2*ln(x)}{2} + C[/itex]
Checked on calculator, and was correct. Thank you!

Now for b, that doesn't help me at all... >.>
 
lastdayx52 said:
Now for b, that doesn't help me at all... >.>

Why not?

[tex]\int \frac{x^2}{x^2-4} dx=\int \frac{(x^2-4)+4}{x^2-4} dx=\int \frac{x^2-4}{x^2-4} dx +\int \frac{4}{x^2-4} dx[/tex]
 
gabbagabbahey said:
Hi lastdayx52, welcome to PF:smile:

Let's start with a) and b)... For a) try integration by parts...For b), hint: [itex]x^2=(x^2-4)+4[/itex]:wink:

Give it a shot and post your attempt if you require further assistance.

gabbagabbahey said:
Why not?

[tex]\int \frac{x^2}{x^2-4} dx=\int \frac{(x^2-4)+4}{x^2-4} dx=\int \frac{x^2-4}{x^2-4} dx +\int \frac{4}{x^2-4} dx[/tex]

LOL haha... See I did that, but stupidly thought the integral of 1 = 1, and when checked against the calculator, it was obviously not correct. haha... Thanks! =P
 

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