Integration, U substitution help

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a u-substitution problem in the context of integration, specifically involving the integral of the function 2x²√(1-x³) dx with the substitution u = 1-x³.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the process of finding the derivative of u and substituting it back into the integral. There are inquiries about the steps taken so far, particularly regarding the calculation of du/dx and how to replace dx in the integral. One participant also questions the new limits of integration after the substitution.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the steps to take after the substitution, while others have raised questions about the limits of integration and the need for the constant of integration. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, and there is no explicit consensus on the final approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can share. There is a mention of a caution regarding the use of external resources for checking work, emphasizing the importance of understanding the process rather than relying solely on solutions.

Dragonetti
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Homework Statement



Hi I am having a few problems with the below u substitution can anyone help,
In particular what to do with the integral of the u substitution?

Homework Equations



[itex]\int[/itex]2x2 square root of 1-x3 dx, u = 1-x3

Any pointers would be appreciated
Thanks
D
 
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Once you have u just take the derivative of it and substitute it back in for dx. The u is right and I can see that it will work out just fine. Try reviewing an example from your notes or the textbook.
 
Can you show us the work you've done so far?
The next step is to find du/dx.
Create something in the integral which we can replace (...)dx and put in du.
Can you show what you get for du/dx?

Please read the section on https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=414380"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Hi Thanks for the help much appriciated,

I think I have worked it out, answer below;

-4/9(1-x3)3/2 du?

I have differentiated it and I get back to original answer.

Just one thing, if my original limits were 2,1 would my new limits be -7,0?

Thanks again
Dominic
 
You got it except you don't need the du at the end. And actually you need your +C as well. But I don't know what you mean with your question regarding limits.
 
Yes, that's right.
Check your answer here
A word of caution about that site- use it only to check your work, or help you through a particularly difficult integral. It's too easy to put it in there first & think one is learning.

When to drop the du?
When one actually does the integral operation. Both the integral sign & du disappear on the same step, when one does the integral itself, after the prep. work(substituting u, constant multipliers, etc.) but before evaluating a definite integral.

About +C, stengah is half right. Without limits of integration it needs a +C. Of course with limits of integration drop the +C.

When you do a definite integral with limits of integration, 2 & 1, the new limits of integration would be -7 & 0. The convention is to mention the bottom limit first, because if you see it graphically, the bottom number is on the left.
 

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