Integrating a Constant Divided by a Linear Function of x

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating a function of the form a/u, where a is a constant and u is a linear function of x. Participants are exploring the integration of expressions like ∫(3/(100+2t)) and discussing related concepts from calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to recall integration techniques related to logarithmic functions and expresses uncertainty about integrating a constant divided by a linear function. Some participants suggest using u-substitution as a potential approach.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the integration process, with some guidance offered regarding u-substitution. There is acknowledgment of a correction in the original post regarding LaTeX formatting, and a reminder about including differentials in integrals has been noted.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses difficulty in finding relevant information in their calculus materials, indicating a possible gap in understanding or recall of integration techniques. There is also a mention of the importance of proper notation 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
[tex]\int \fract{3}{100+2t}[/tex] 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
[tex]\int \frac{3}{100+2t}[/tex] 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.
 

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