Mean Value Theorem for Integrals

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the mean value theorem, which states that if a function is continuous, then the integral of the function over a closed interval is equal to the difference of the function evaluated at the endpoints of the interval. An example is provided using the function f(t) = t² and the interval [3, 7]. The conversation also mentions the solution for x in the given range.
  • #1
misskitty
737
0
Can someone please explain to me how to use this and give an example that we can walk through please? My book doesn't give an example of what it is talking about.

~Kitty
 
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  • #2
Your just talking about the theorem that if [itex]a \leq b[/itex], and f is continuous, then:

[tex]
\int_a^b f(t) \, dt = f(x) (b - a)
[/tex]

has a solution for x in the range [itex]a \leq x \leq b[/itex]?

An example is easy enough. What's your favorite continuous f? Your favorite a? Your favorite b larger than a? Just plug them in.

Say, we use
f(t) = t²
a = 3
b = 7

Then the mean value theorem says that the equation

[tex]
\int_3^7 t^2 \, dt = x^2 (7 - 3)
[/tex]

has a solution with [itex]3 \leq x \leq 7[/itex].
 

1. What is the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals?

The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals is a theorem in calculus that states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval, then there exists at least one point within that interval where the average value of the function is equal to its value at that point.

2. How is the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals used in calculus?

The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals is used to prove a number of important results in calculus, including the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and the Second Mean Value Theorem. It is also used to find the average value of a function over a given interval.

3. What is the difference between the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals and the Mean Value Theorem for Derivatives?

The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals deals with the average value of a function over a given interval, while the Mean Value Theorem for Derivatives deals with the instantaneous rate of change of a function at a specific point within that interval.

4. Can the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals be applied to all functions?

No, the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals can only be applied to continuous functions on a closed interval. It cannot be applied to functions that are discontinuous or undefined on that interval.

5. How is the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals related to the Intermediate Value Theorem?

The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals is a special case of the Intermediate Value Theorem, which states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval, it must take on all values between its minimum and maximum values at least once within that interval. The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals can be seen as a specific application of this concept to the average value of a function.

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