Integral with only one limit of integration?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of an integral with a single limit of integration, specifically the expression ∫^x (x' / (1 + x'^2)) dx'. Participants are exploring the implications of this notation within the context of integral calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the meaning of having only one limit of integration, contrasting it with standard definite and indefinite integrals. Some suggest treating it as an indefinite integral, while others propose setting the lower limit to zero to simplify the expression.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants offer guidance on how to approach the integral, while others caution against assumptions regarding the limits of integration. There is no explicit consensus on the correct interpretation yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the nuances of integral notation and its implications, with some expressing uncertainty about the validity of setting a lower limit to zero. The original poster is seeking clarification on how to proceed with the integral.

DieCommie
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Homework Statement


Work it out with pencil and paper.
[tex]\int^x \frac{x'dx'}{1+x'^2}[/tex]


Homework Equations


none


The Attempt at a Solution


My only question is what does it mean to have only one limit of integration? I am used to doing integrals in the indefinite case with no limits of integration, or in the definite case with two limits of integration.

What does this single limit of integration mean, and what do I do with it? Do I assume 0 for the other limit? Do I just solve it as a an indefinite integral?

Thanks for any clues!


 
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I've never seen that notation before! I'd say you just integrate it indefinitely, then substitute x in for x'.
 
Yeah, I'd say set the bottom limit equal to 0 so that it makes the second part of the solution disappear.
 
The notation [itex]\int^x f(x')dx'[/itex] is just an indefinite integral. Remember that the variable inside the integral is a "dummy" variable- the "x" as a limit of integration just tells you what variable to use in the resulting function.

Do NOT set the bottom limit to 0! That is not justified.
 

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