Proof of integration power rule

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the proof of the power rule for integration, specifically deriving the formula \(\int_a^b x^c=\frac{b^{c+1}-a^{c+1}}{c+1}\) using the definition of a definite integral. Participants explore different approaches and references, including specific inequalities and examples.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about proving the power rule for integration using the definition of a definite integral, expressing difficulty in substituting values for \(f(x^*_i)\) and \(\Delta x\).
  • Another participant references Apostol's book, suggesting that it contains a proof of the integration power rule.
  • A participant questions the use of a specific inequality in Apostol's proof, seeking clarification on its necessity and derivation.
  • One participant provides a detailed example using the definite integral of \(f(x)=x\) and outlines the steps to derive \(\int_0^x x \: dx=\frac{x^2}{2}\), noting that generalizing this for \(x^c\) would be more complex.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and approaches to the proof, with no consensus on the best method or clarity on the inequality used in Apostol's proof. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the derivation and application of the power rule.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion over the specific inequality used in Apostol's proof, indicating a potential gap in understanding its application. The discussion also highlights the complexity of generalizing the integration process for different powers.

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Hey, I was just wondering if there was a way to prove the power rule for integration using the definition of a definite integral. And I don't mean using the proof for the differentiation power rule, I mean is it possible to derive \displaystyle\large\int_a^b x^c=\frac{b^{c+1}-a^{c+1}} {c+1} using the formula \displaystyle\large\int_a^b f(x)=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n f(x^*_i)\Delta x ?

I tried substituting the values for f(x^*_i) and \Delta x without any success.
 
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Apostol does it in his book. Section I.23.
 
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Hi micromass just want to ask why did apostol used this inequality to prove the integration of power rule? He just suddenly said "We begin with this inequality", I'm confused, why did he use that? And how did he come up with such an inequality (knowing it will work)?

INEQUALITY:
k=1 to k=n-1 ∑k^p < (n^p+1)/(p+1) < k=1 to k=n ∑k^p
 
Take a simple definite integral like ##f(x)=x## and use simple limits.

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x f(x) \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n f(x^*_i) \Delta x##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n (x_i) \frac{x}{n}##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \frac{x}{n} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n (x_i) ##

Using left hand Reimann sum the width of the next interval is ##x_i = \Delta x \cdot i##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \frac{x}{n} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n (\frac{x}{n} \cdot i) ##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \frac{x^2}{n^2} \sum\limits_{i=1}^n (i) ##

Use the partial sums formula ## \sum\limits_{i=1}^n (i) = \frac {n (n+1)}{2}##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \frac{x^2}{n^2} \cdot \frac{n(n+1)}{2} ##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\lim\limits_{n\to\infty} \frac{ n^2 x^2 + nx^2}{2n^2} ##

##\displaystyle\large\int_0^x x \: dx=\frac {x^2}{2} ##

You can generalize it for ##x^c## but it will be hairier than a gorilla.
 

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