If a=b then integral(a) = integral(b) .... 1/2lnx =/= 1/2ln(2x) ?

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The discussion centers on the mathematical principle that while two integrals may appear equivalent when their integrands are equal, their results can differ due to the constants of integration. Specifically, the integrals of a = dx/(2x) and b = dx/(2x) yield (1/2) ln|x| + C and (1/2) ln|2x| + C, respectively. The key takeaway is that the constants of integration (C) are not necessarily equal, leading to different results. This highlights the importance of considering integration boundaries and constants when evaluating integrals.

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Am I missing something?

if a = b then

Integral a = Integral b

a = dx/2x and b = dx/2x

a = (1/2) (dx/x) =
b = [dx/(2x)]

So far so good...Integral of a .. let U = x, du = dx

Integral of a = (1/2) ln|x| + C

Integral of b... let U = 2x, du = 2 dx (multiple by (1/2) to balance out numerator only being 1)
(1/2) Integral (du/u)

Integral of b = (1/2) ln|2x| + C

But wait... (1/2) ln|x| =/= (1/2) ln|2x|

So did I mess something up or is integral (a) not always = to integral (b) given a = b.
 
Last edited:
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You scammed by hiding the difference in the constant. Your C's aren't equal.
 
Wanted said:
du = 2
du = 2 dx
 
fresh_42 said:
You scammed by hiding the difference in the constant. Your C's aren't equal.

Help me understand why they aren't equal. Surely there isn't a difference between using one integration technique over the other?
tony873004 said:
du = 2 dx

Yes.. updated... but unfortunately that does not change or resolve the issue here or explain any confusion.
 
Last edited:
Wanted said:
Help me understand why they aren't equal. Surely there isn't a difference between using one integration technique over the other?
Sure there is. The boundaries change. If you ignore them by hiding them in the C you could add any constant value, e.g. ##-\frac{1}{2}ln2##.
 
fresh_42 said:
Sure there is. The boundaries change. If you ignore them by hiding them in the C you could add any constant value, e.g. ##-\frac{1}{2}ln2##.
Yea that's right. I just evaluated the definite integral from 1 to 2 and they were equal then. I suppose my real confusion is coming from some where else in my (parent) equation (not this one) I'll have to get back to you in a bit.
 

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