Is There a Way to Fix Unbalanced Parentheses in a Function?

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    Integral
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the definition and evaluation of a function with unbalanced parentheses, specifically focusing on the integral of the function y=sqrt(5+(cos(x)^5) over the interval [2, 7x2]. Participants explore whether the function is defined on this interval and the implications for calculating the integral and its derivative.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the function is defined on the interval [2, 7x2], noting that 7x2 is not a specific limit.
  • Another participant asserts that the function is defined and that 7x2 is a valid upper limit, suggesting to replace x in the integrand to avoid confusion.
  • A subsequent reply reiterates that the function is defined and discusses the application of the fundamental theorem of calculus, although the formulation is unclear.
  • Another participant states that if F(x) is the integral, then F'(x) can be expressed in terms of y evaluated at 7x2.
  • A final comment emphasizes that unbalanced parentheses are problematic in mathematical expressions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the validity of the upper limit 7x2 and whether the function is defined on the specified interval. Some participants believe the function is defined, while others express uncertainty about the limits.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential confusion arising from unbalanced parentheses and the need for clarity in mathematical notation. There are unresolved aspects regarding the specific interpretation of the limits and the function's continuity.

Compaq
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Let's say one has a function y=sqrt(5+(cos(x)^5), and that one must find the integral: lower limit=2 and upper limit=7x2.

Is this function defined on a closed interval [2,7x2], or is this function in fact not defined at all, as 7x2 isn't a specific limit?

-Compaq
 
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The function is defined. 7x2 is a perfectly valid upper limit. Just be careful to replace x in the integrand with another symbol to avoid confusion.
 
mathman said:
The function is defined. 7x2 is a perfectly valid upper limit. Just be careful to replace x in the integrand with another symbol to avoid confusion.

So if I were to calculate the mentioned integral, int y, and then find dy/dx, I could just use the fundamental theorem of Calculus and say that if the function is continuous, which it is in the defined interval, and that since y(t)=Y(t), Y'(t)= y(t)..

hmm, that was badly formulated, but I hope you see what I mean. No need to spend time doing hard integrals manually, as it's normally done numerical anyways, when I can just say that the derivative of the integral equals the thing I started with in the beginning?

I know, not very mathematically formulated... I'm new that this! :P
 
Let F(x) be the integral, then F'(x)=y(7x2)14x.
 
Compaq said:
y=sqrt(5+(cos(x)^5)


Unbalanced parentheses are never good.
 

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