Solving a definite integral by differentiation under the integral

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the definite integral ##\displaystyle \int_0^1 \frac{\log (x+1)}{x^2+1}## using the technique of differentiation under the integral sign. The method involves defining a function ##f(t) = \int_0^1 \frac{\log (tx+1)}{x^2+1}## and differentiating with respect to the parameter ##t##. This approach leads to a solution after integrating the result. The key challenge highlighted is determining the appropriate placement of the parameter ##t## within the integral, which requires intuition and experience rather than a systematic method.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of definite integrals and their properties
  • Familiarity with differentiation under the integral sign
  • Knowledge of logarithmic functions and their behavior
  • Basic experience with parameterization in integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of differentiation under the integral sign in detail
  • Explore examples of parameterized integrals to identify patterns
  • Learn about the Leibniz rule for differentiating under the integral sign
  • Investigate other techniques for solving definite integrals, such as substitution methods
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, calculus students, and anyone interested in advanced integration techniques will benefit from this discussion, particularly those looking to enhance their problem-solving skills in integral calculus.

Mr Davis 97
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Say we have the following integral: ##\displaystyle \int_0^1 \frac{\log (x+1)}{x^2+1}##. I know how to do this integral with a tangent substitution. However, I saw another method, which was by differentiating ##f## under the integral with respect to the parameter ##t##, where we let ##\displaystyle f(t) = \int_0^1 \frac{\log (tx+1)}{x^2+1}##. This indeed leads to a solution, where after differentiating, we integrate again to get the solution. However, to use this method, first we have to find somewhere to insert the parameter. How does one figure out that the ##t## goes where it does as in this example? If I were trying to do this integral by differentiating under the integral on my own, why would I think to put the ##t## there as opposed to somewhere else?
 
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I don't think there is any systematic way for that. Its something you should figure out by yourself whether this method can be used for a particular integral or not. In fact if a particular place comes to your mind that placing the parameter there would let you use this method, then you can consider using this method. Its not the other way around.
 
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