Integration, U substitution help

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of u-substitution in solving the integral \(\int 2x^2 \sqrt{1-x^3} \, dx\) with the substitution \(u = 1 - x^3\). Participants emphasize the importance of differentiating \(u\) to find \(du/dx\) and substituting it back into the integral. The correct evaluation of limits after substitution is confirmed, with new limits being -7 and 0 when the original limits were 2 and 1. Additionally, the necessity of including the constant of integration \(+C\) for indefinite integrals is highlighted.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integral calculus and u-substitution technique
  • Familiarity with differentiation and finding \(du/dx\)
  • Knowledge of evaluating definite integrals and changing limits
  • Experience with integral notation and constants of integration
NEXT STEPS
  • Review examples of u-substitution in integral calculus
  • Practice finding \(du/dx\) for various functions
  • Learn about the implications of limits of integration in definite integrals
  • Explore the role of the constant of integration \(+C\) in indefinite integrals
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those learning about integration techniques, as well as educators looking for examples of u-substitution in practice.

Dragonetti
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

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



\int2x2 square root of 1-x3 dx, u = 1-x3

Any pointers would be appreciated
Thanks
D
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 44 ·
2
Replies
44
Views
6K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K