Integration Proof with constant

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving that if the derivatives of two functions, f and g, are equal over an interval (a,b), then the difference f-g is constant on that interval. The original poster presents an attempt at a proof but expresses uncertainty regarding their notation and the correctness of their reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the functions f and g based on their derivatives, with some suggesting defining a new function h(x) = f(x) - g(x) to analyze its properties. Questions arise about the use of intervals and the implications of h(x) being constant.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing suggestions for approaching the problem and questioning the assumptions made by the original poster. There is a focus on clarifying the conditions under which h(x) would be constant and the role of derivatives in this context.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the original poster's limited exposure to integrals, which may affect their understanding of the problem. There is also mention of the need for proper notation in mathematical proofs.

OmniNewton
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Homework Statement


Prove that if f'(x) = g'(x) for all x in an interval (a,b) then f-g is constant on (a,b) then f-g is constant on (a,b) that is f(x) = g(x) + C

Homework Equations


Let C be a constant
Let D be a constant

The Attempt at a Solution


f(x) = antiderivative(f'(x)) = f(x) + C
g(x)= antiderivative(g'(x)) = g(x) + D

f-g = f(x) + C - (g(x) + D)
f-g = f(x) - g(x) + C - D

but since f'(x) = g'(x) then f(x) = g(x) the only difference is their constant.

then,

f-g = f(x) - f(x) + C - D
f-g = C - D

Since C and D are constants

then,

f-g = constant

if C = D

then f-g = 0

Note: I feel like I proved it but my notation is wrong since I cannot use f(x) = f(x) + C. I would like guidance for the proper notation to use. The possibility also exists my proof is completely wrong. I would like help

Thanks in Advanced!
 
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You have not used the interval.
 
How would I got about approaching this problem? I'm sorry perhaps I am lacking knowledge but I have only received a 30 minute lesson on integrals in my class, which was the last class of the semester.
 
OmniNewton said:
How would I got about approaching this problem? I'm sorry perhaps I am lacking knowledge but I have only received a 30 minute lesson on integrals in my class, which was the last class of the semester.

Here's a suggestion to get you started. Let ##h(x) = f(x) - g(x)##. What can you say about ##h(x)##?
 
PeroK said:
Here's a suggestion to get you started. Let ##h(x) = f(x) - g(x)##. What can you say about ##h(x)##?
h(x) is constant on (a,b). Should I be using the area beneath the curve formula?
 
OmniNewton said:
h(x) is constant on (a,b). Should I be using the area beneath the curve formula?
How did you deduce that ##h(x)## is constant on ##(a,b)##? PeroK has a very good suggestion, under what conditions would ##h(x)## be constant over an interval? Could this have something to do with its derivative?
 
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