Integration of Rational Functions by Partial Fractions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the evaluation of definite integrals of rational functions using partial fractions, specifically focusing on the convergence of these integrals at their bounds. Participants explore the implications of undefined points in the integrands and the conditions under which the integrals can be evaluated.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents two definite integrals and notes that the natural logarithm is not defined at certain bounds, raising questions about how to proceed with evaluation.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of checking for convergence before evaluating definite integrals, particularly highlighting that the integral of 1/x diverges at the lower bound of 0.
  • There is a reiteration of the divergence of the integral of 1/(x-1) at the upper bound of 1, suggesting that this also affects the evaluation of the second integral.
  • Some participants propose that if an integral is a sum of a convergent and a divergent integral, then the overall integral is divergent.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to check for convergence before evaluating the integrals. However, there is no consensus on how to handle the integrals given their divergent nature at specific bounds.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the undefined nature of the integrands at the specified bounds, which raises questions about the convergence and evaluation of the integrals. The discussion does not resolve how to proceed with the evaluation given these issues.

renyikouniao
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1) integral (upper bound:1, lower bound:0) (x^2+1)/(x^3+x^2+4x) dx
2) integral (upper bound:1, lower bound:0) (x^4+x^2+1)/(x^3+x^2+x-3) dx

Now I know how to use Partial Fractions,My question is:

1) For the first part ln(x) is not defined at 0

¼ʃ1/x dx + ¼ʃ(3x-1)/(x²+x+4) dx
= ¼ ln|x| + ¼ʃ(3x-1)/(x²+x+4) dx
2) ln(x-1) is not defined at 1 for this part
ʃ1/[2(x-1)] + (x+7) / [2(x²+2x+3)] dx
= ½ʃ1/(x-1) +½ ʃ(x+7)/(x²+2x+3) dx
= ½ ln |x-1| +½ ʃ(x+7)/(x²+2x+3) dxSo If I want to evaluate this definite integral, what I should do next?
 
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$$\int^1_0\frac{x^2+1}{x^3+x^2+4x} dx$$

The first question that you would probably ask is whether the integral converges because the function is not defined at $$0$$.
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
$$\int^1_0\frac{x^2+1}{x^3+x^2+4x} dx$$

The first question that you would probably ask is whether the integral converges because the function is not defined at $$0$$.

Since the integral(upper bound: 1, lower bound: 0) 1/x is divergent, so the definite integral can't be evaluated?

Same as the second part, integral (upper bound:1, lower bound: 0) 1/(x-1) is divergent also.
 
renyikouniao said:
Since the integral(upper bound: 1, lower bound: 0) 1/x is divergent, so the definite integral can't be evaluated?

Same as the second part, integral (upper bound:1, lower bound: 0) 1/(x-1) is divergent also.

Basically , before you integrate a definite integral you check for convergence . Sometimes you need to simplify a little bit before you make sure it is convergent .

If the integral is a sum of a convergent and divergent integral then it is divergent .
 

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