Improper Integral: Comparing to 1/x^p

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on evaluating the improper integral from 2 to infinity of the function 1/(x - √x) by comparing it to the function 1/x. The participant initially considers using the limit comparison test but is informed that it is unnecessary because 1/(x - √x) is always greater than 1/x. Consequently, since 1/x diverges, it follows that 1/(x - √x) also diverges.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of improper integrals
  • Familiarity with limit comparison test
  • Knowledge of divergence and convergence of integrals
  • Basic calculus concepts, particularly limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of improper integrals
  • Learn about the limit comparison test in detail
  • Explore divergence and convergence criteria for integrals
  • Investigate other comparison tests for improper integrals
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on improper integrals and comparison tests, as well as educators teaching these concepts.

cragar
Messages
2,546
Reaction score
3

Homework Statement


integral from 2 to infinty 1/(x-sqrt(x))

The Attempt at a Solution


my teacher wants us to compare it to another function in the form 1/x^p
and not integrate it so
would i compare it to 1/x and then do the limit comparison test
limit as x approaches infinity
i came out with a finite number and since 1/x divegres therefore 1/(x-sqrt(x)) diverges
is this correct.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
cragar said:
integral from 2 to infinty 1/(x-sqrt(x))

my teacher wants us to compare it to another function in the form 1/x^p
and not integrate it so
would i compare it to 1/x and then do the limit comparison test
limit as x approaches infinity

Hi cragar! :smile:

That'll do, but you don't actually need the limit comparison test in this case, since 1/(x - √x) is always larger than 1/x :wink:
 
so you are saying since it is larger than something that diverges then it to will diverge.
i see.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K