Partial Derivative of Integral

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the partial derivative of a function defined by a definite integral, specifically f(x,y) = integral of sqrt(1-t^3) dt from x^2 to x^3. Participants are exploring the implications of treating the variable t as a constant and the application of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants discuss the treatment of the variable t in the context of the integral and its implications for differentiation. Others suggest applying the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus to express the integral in terms of functions of x, raising questions about the necessity of finding an explicit antiderivative.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing insights into the application of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. There is a recognition of the need to differentiate the integral without necessarily finding its explicit form, and multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the absence of the variable y in the function, which prompts clarification about the complete function's definition. There is also mention of the constraints imposed by the nature of the integral and the differentiation process.

Victor8108
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Homework Statement



Find df/dx, f(x,y)=integral of sqrt(1-t^3)dt from x^2 to x^3.

Since it is asking to find the derivative with respect to x,should I regard t as a constant?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to find the antiderivative of the integral sqrt(1-t^3)dt and then differentiate with respect to x.

However, I'm stuck in finding the antiderivative of the function , I tried using substitution u=1-t^3, du=-3t^2 dt. But that doesn't seem to be going the right direction.
 
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The variable "t" is a dummy variable we are summing over: the value of the definite integral is not a function of t. To see this another way, apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus to write the integral as a difference of two functions of x. You do not actually need to find an expression for these two functions, as all you will need are their derivatives. For example, consider
f(x) = \int_0^{x^2} \sin(t^2) dt
The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus tells us that we can write f(x) like this as well, for each value of x:
f(x) = F(x^2) - F(0)
where F(t) is any function whose derivative is \sin(t^2) at each point t in the closed interval between t = 0 and t = x^2. If we try to take the derivative of f(x), we find the following when we apply the chain rule:
f'(x) = F'(x^2)(2x) - F'(0)(0)
We don't need to know any particular version of F, we just need to know what its derivative at x^2 and 0 is. Since x^2 and 0 are in the closed interval, we know the value of the derivative of F at those points are \sin(x^4) and sin(0), respectively. Thus we get
f'(x) = 2x\sin(x^4)
once we simplify.
 
Last edited:
For those wondering why the equation f(x,y) has no y, here is the complete function:

f(x,y)= (x^2)y+integral of sqrt(1-t^3)dt from x^2 to x^3.

I figured the first part(x^2)y so I didnt put it in the equation. sorry about the inconvenience.
 
Ok, according to the fundamental theorem of calculus:

if g(x)= f(t)dt from a to x, then g'(x)=f(x)

applying this to my problem, then it becomes g'(x)= sqrt(1-x^9)-sqrt(1-x^6)
 
The fundamental theorem states that if F(a, b) is the integral of f(x) from a to b, then, letting g(t) = F(a, t), g'(t) = f(t).
 
Victor8108 said:
Ok, according to the fundamental theorem of calculus:

if g(x)= f(t)dt from a to x, then g'(x)=f(x)

applying this to my problem, then it becomes g'(x)= sqrt(1-x^9)-sqrt(1-x^6)

That's absolutely right.
 

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