Integrating a Constant Divided by a Linear Function of x

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To integrate a function of the form a/u, where a is a constant and u is a linear function of x, a u-substitution is necessary. Specifically, setting u equal to the denominator simplifies the integration process. The integral of a constant divided by a linear function results in a logarithmic function, as demonstrated with the example ∫(3/(100+2t)) dt, which equals (3/2) ln(100+2t). It's important to include the differential in the integral to avoid confusion and errors in calculations. Proper notation and understanding of u-substitution are crucial for successful integration in calculus.
alpha120
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Okay well, I looked through my calculus notes and textbook and I can't find what to do when you are integrating a function of the type a/u where a is a constant and u is some linear function of x. I know that the integral of 1/x is ln(x) but what about when you have something like
\int \fract{3}{100+2t} which is 3/2 ln(100+2t).

If I recall the derivative of ln(u) is u'/u, so I assume it must somehow be like that. I am sure I learned how to integrate it somewhere along the road... must've been asleep that class or something though...
 
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You need to to a u-substitution. Let u equal the denominator, and go from there.
 
Nvm. Apparently I couldn't see the code right.
 
Last edited:
alpha120 said:
Okay well, I looked through my calculus notes and textbook and I can't find what to do when you are integrating a function of the type a/u where a is a constant and u is some linear function of x. I know that the integral of 1/x is ln(x) but what about when you have something like
\int \frac{3}{100+2t} which is 3/2 ln(100+2t).
Corrected your LaTeX. You had "fract" instead of "frac".

Also, you should get in the habit of including the differential, dt in this case. If you don't, it will definitely come back and bite you very soon.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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