# Integration problem.

1. Jan 10, 2010

### bp_psy

I understand the mechanics of how this happens but i don't really understand why.

$$\frac{a}{b}\int\frac{1}{x+c}dx\neq\int\frac{a}{b(x+c)}dx$$

Why can't the constant be taken out?

2. Jan 10, 2010

### l'Hôpital

What makes you think it can't be?

3. Jan 10, 2010

### bp_psy

This:
$$\frac{a}{b}\int\frac{1}{x+c}dx=\frac{a}{b}ln(x+c)+C$$

$$\int\frac{a}{b(x+c)}dx=\frac{a}{b}ln(bx+bc)+C$$

4. Jan 10, 2010

### l'Hôpital

Consider
$$\int 5x$$

So, which is right?

$$\int 5x = \frac{(5x)^2}{2} + C$$
or
$$\int 5x = 5\frac{x^2}{2} + C$$
Even in regular integration, you always pull off the constants. Just because you have 1/x doesn't mean the constant shouldn't be pulled out.

However, it does worth mentioning that both your answers are actually right.

$$\frac{a}{b}ln(bx+bc)+C = \frac{a}{b}ln(b(x+c))+C = \frac{a}{b}ln(x+c)+ \frac{a}{b}ln b + C = \frac{a}{b}ln(x+c)+D$$
Where D is just another constant.

5. Jan 10, 2010

### bp_psy

I know.
Ok now I understand it. I actually run into this problem while trying to calculate integration factors for ODEs. This should simplify my calculations.

Thank you.