Integrate this indefinite integral: 1/(x-6)^2 dx

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on integrating the function 1/(x-6)^2 dx. The correct approach involves substituting u = x - 6, leading to the integral of 1/u^2 du. The final result is -1/u + C, which translates to -1/(x-6) + C. Participants emphasize the importance of recognizing the integral of u^(-2) and correcting misconceptions regarding logarithmic integration.

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  • Understanding of basic integral calculus
  • Familiarity with substitution methods in integration
  • Knowledge of integral tables and common integrals
  • Concept of derivatives and their relationship to integrals
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  • Study the integration of power functions, specifically \(\int x^{\alpha} \, dx\)
  • Review the properties of logarithmic functions in calculus
  • Practice integration techniques involving substitution
  • Explore common integral tables for quick reference
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Students of calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone seeking to improve their integration skills, particularly with rational functions.

Natasha1
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I need to integrate this indefinite integral: 1/(x-6)^2 dx

Here is my work...

Let u= x-6

du/dx=1

so: integral 1/u^2 du

= 3/u^3 + c (constant)
=3/(x-6)^3 + c

Have I gone wrong? And if so where? Thanks
 
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Be careful. What is the derivative of 1/xn? So what is its integral?
 
StatusX said:
Be careful. What is the derivative of 1/xn? So what is its integral?

not sure what the derivative is? what is it?

The integral is n lnx so is this correct then

Here is my work...

Let u= x-6

du/dx=1

so: integral 1/u^2 du

= 2 lnu + c (constant)
= 2 ln(x-6) + c

Have I gone wrong? And if so where? Thanks
 
The derivative of 1/xn is -n/xn+1.
 
Natasha1 said:
not sure what the derivative is? what is it?

The integral is n lnx so is this correct then

Here is my work...

Let u= x-6

du/dx=1

so: integral 1/u^2 du

= 2 lnu + c (constant)
= 2 ln(x-6) + c

Have I gone wrong? And if so where? Thanks
You are almost there. Your last step is wrong...
Look again at your integral table, there should be something like this:
\int x ^ \alpha \ dx = \frac{x ^ {\alpha + 1}}{\alpha + 1} + C, \ \alpha \neq -1
\int \frac{1}{x} \ dx = \int x ^ {-1} \ dx = \ln (x) + C \quad \mbox{this is the case for } \alpha = -1.
And we also have:
\frac{1}{a ^ m} = a ^ {-m}. Do you know this?
So you have:
\int \frac{du}{u ^ 2} = \int u ^ {-2} \ du = ?.
You can go from here, right? :smile:
 

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