Need integral help ( integral property maybe )

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    Integral Property
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of a function defined as a quadratic equation, specifically exploring the integral of the form \(\int(u) - 1\) where \(u\) is a function of \(x\). Participants are examining properties of integrals and potential methods for integration, including substitutions and transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks about the integral \(\int(u) - 1\) where \(u = x^2 + 2ax + a^2\) and whether there is a basic property that applies.
  • Another participant suggests using the integral of \(x^{-2}\) as a hint to approach the problem, proposing a substitution \(y = x + a\) to relate \(dy\) and \(dx\).
  • A participant expresses confusion about the derivative of the integral and questions why \(u'\) does not appear in the equation when integrating.
  • Another participant clarifies that since \(u = x + a\), then \(u' = 1\), leading to a simplified expression for the integral.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains some agreement on the substitution method, but participants express differing levels of understanding regarding the relationship between integration and differentiation, particularly concerning the presence of \(u'\) in the equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the best approach to integrate the function, and there are unresolved questions about the implications of derivatives in the context of integration.

polosportply
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What is the [tex]\int(u)[/tex]-1 where u is a fonction of x , forming a quadratic equation.
As in:

[tex]\int(u)[/tex]-1 where u = x2+2ax+a2 for example.

Is there a basic property for this... or do I have to play around with the fonction u , in order to integrate?


----

I know that [tex]\int(x)[/tex] = ln(x) , but this can't be applied here, right? because ln(u)' = u-1(u'). Maybe would I need to find a way to eliminate the u' as a result of the integral.

OR

Do I need to change u to = ( x+a)(x+a) and do the integer of that ^-1 , so: [tex]\int((x+a)^-1)((x+a)^-1)[/tex]


----

Does anyone know an integral property for this kind of problem, or know of a way to set me on the right track here?

Thank you.
 
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Since you know the integral of x-2 is -x-1, you should be able to do the integral of (x+a)-2. Hint: let y=x+a and get the relationship between dy and dx.
 
Ok, if I get what you're saying: u[tex]\equiv(x+a)[/tex]

[tex]\int(u)[/tex]-2= -u-1= -(x+a)-1I was onto that before, but then... if I do (-u-1)' = u-2u'So how come the (u') is not in the equation while doing the integral.
If I integrate something and then derive it, it should come back to the original term.

But apparently not cuz: (u-2)u'[tex]\neq(u)[/tex]-2

**Is that what you meant mathman, or am I still off?
 
Since u=x+a then u'=1. Therefore u-2u' = u-2
 

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