Help with using Integration By Substitution

In summary, the problem involves using the substitution u=3x+4 to solve the integral of 2x √(3x+4). After making the necessary substitutions and simplifications, the correct answer is found to be 4(3x+4)^(5/2)/45 - 16(3x+4)^(3/2)/27 + c. The mistake in the attempt at a solution was forgetting to distribute the 2 when setting x=(u-4)/3.
  • #1
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1. Homework Statement :
using the substitution [itex]u=3x+4[/itex], work out:
[itex]\int 2x \sqrt{3x+4}[/itex]2. The attempt at a solution:
[itex]\int 2x \sqrt{3x+4}[/itex]
[itex]u=3x+4 \rightarrow \mathrm{d}x = \frac{\mathrm{d}u}{3}[/itex]
[itex]\int \left( \frac{u-4}{3} \right)\left(u^{\frac12}\right) \ \frac{\mathrm{d}u}{3}[/itex]
[itex]\frac19 \int u^{\frac32} - 4u^{\frac12} \ \mathrm{d}u[/itex]
[itex]=\frac19 \left[ \frac{2u^{\frac52}}{5} - \frac{8u^{\frac32}}{3}\right] + c[/itex]
[itex]=\frac{2u^{\frac52}}{45} - \frac{8u^{\frac32}}{27}}+c[/itex]
[itex]=\frac{2(3x+4)^{\frac52}}{45} - \frac{8(3x+4)^{\frac32}}{27} + c[/itex]3. The problem that I am encountering:
I was close to the answer but it is incorrect. The correct answer is:
[itex]\frac{4(3x+4)^{\frac52}}{45} - \frac{16(3x+4)^{\frac32}}{27} + c[/itex]
Where have I gone wrong? Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
You forgot to keep the 2 that was in front of the original problem after you made the substitution.
 
  • #3
Yeah looks like you did not distrbute the 2 when you set x=(u-4)/3. So change your 4th step to a 2/9 outside the integral.
 

What is Integration By Substitution?

Integration By Substitution is a method used in calculus to solve integration problems by substituting a variable or expression with a new one. It is also known as the u-substitution method.

How do I know when to use Integration By Substitution?

You can use Integration By Substitution when you have an integral that involves a function within a function, or when the integral involves a variable raised to a power. In general, it is useful when the integral is in the form of f(g(x))g'(x) where f(x) and g(x) are functions.

What are the steps for using Integration By Substitution?

The steps for using Integration By Substitution are as follows:

  1. Identify the inner function (g(x)) and its derivative (g'(x)).
  2. Let u be the inner function (u = g(x)).
  3. Find du, which is equal to g'(x)dx.
  4. Substitute u and du into the integral.
  5. Solve the new integral in terms of u.
  6. Substitute back in for u using the original equation.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using Integration By Substitution?

Some common mistakes to avoid when using Integration By Substitution are:

  • Forgetting to take the derivative of the inner function when finding du.
  • Forgetting to substitute back in for u using the original equation.
  • Using the wrong variable for substitution (u instead of x, or vice versa).
  • Not being aware of common trigonometric identities, which can simplify the integral.

Can I use Integration By Substitution for definite integrals?

Yes, you can use Integration By Substitution for definite integrals. After substituting in for u and solving the integral in terms of u, you must then evaluate the integral at the limits of integration and substitute back in for x.

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