Integral Evaluation: Evaluate the Sum of a Square Root

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral \(\int(1+\sqrt{9-x^{2}})dx\) from -3 to 0, with an emphasis on interpreting it in terms of areas rather than using calculus techniques such as the fundamental theorem. The original poster attempts to apply summation rules to evaluate the integral as a limit of sums.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants suggest splitting the integral into two parts to simplify the evaluation, identifying the first part as a rectangle and the second as a segment of a circle. Others encourage visualizing the integrand to understand the area represented by the integral.

Discussion Status

The discussion is progressing with participants offering alternative perspectives on evaluating the integral by areas. Some guidance has been provided regarding the geometric interpretation of the integrals involved, and the original poster expresses understanding after the suggestions.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes a lack of familiarity with the fundamental theorem of calculus, which influences their approach to the problem. There is an emphasis on evaluating the integral without using Riemann sums or calculus techniques.

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Homework Statement



Evaluate the integral by interpreting it in terms of areas.
[tex]\int(1+\sqrt{9-x^{2}})dx}[/tex]
The integral is from -3 to 0. I should be able to evaluate it as a limit of sums, since I've not been taught the fundamental theorem of calculus yet.

Homework Equations



dx=[tex]\frac{3}{n}[/tex], [tex]x_{i} = -3 + \frac{3i}{n}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I've gotten as far as [tex]3 + \frac{3}{n}\sum\sqrt{9-x^{2}[/tex] by applying summation rules. I just don't know how to evaluate a sum of a square root.

Thanks!
 
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Evaluate the integral by interpreting it in terms of areas.

You're making this harder than it needs to be. Split the integral into two parts:
[tex]\int_{-3}^0 1 dx + \int_{-3}^0 \sqrt{9 - x^2}dx[/tex]

The region in the first integral is just a rectangle, so you should be able to get its area very easily. The second region is part of a circle. Can you figure out where the center of this circle is, its radius, and how much of the circle is represented by the integral? If so, you can evaluate this integral without using any calculus and without using Riemann sums.
 
Since the question asks for evaluation by areas, graph the integrand from -3 to 0 and look at the resulting shape. Don't worry about summation.
 
Ahh I get it now, thank you.
 

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