Solving Definite Integrals with Variable Limits

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of integrals with variable limits, specifically when both the upper and lower limits are functions of a variable. Participants are exploring the application of the fundamental theorem of calculus and substitution methods in these contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss methods for differentiating integrals with variable limits, including the use of the fundamental theorem of calculus and 'u' substitution. Questions arise about handling cases where both limits are variable functions, such as the derivative of an integral from x to x^2 - x.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into splitting integrals to manage variable limits and have raised further questions about applying the product rule when additional functions are involved. There is an ongoing exploration of different approaches without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of variable limits in integrals and the implications for differentiation, with some expressing uncertainty about specific cases and methods.

CalculusHelp1
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Homework Statement



I'm trying to solve a problem where you are asked to find the derivative of an integral where both limits of integrations contain variables


Homework Equations



Definition of integrals, derivatives

The Attempt at a Solution



For problems where you have an integral from a to x, where a is a constant and x is the variable and you are asked to find the derivative of the integral, you can just apply the fundamental theorem of calculus and arrive at the original function f(x).

For problems where you have an integral from a to a function of x, such as x^2, you can use 'u' substitution and find the derivative of the integral from a to u multiplied by du/dx

What can you do for problems where both the lower and upper bounds are variables, e.g. derivative of an integral from x to x^2-x. How would you approach one of these problems?

I can answer questions of the first two kinds but am stuck on the third type.
 
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CalculusHelp1 said:

Homework Statement



I'm trying to solve a problem where you are asked to find the derivative of an integral where both limits of integrations contain variables


Homework Equations



Definition of integrals, derivatives

The Attempt at a Solution



For problems where you have an integral from a to x, where a is a constant and x is the variable and you are asked to find the derivative of the integral, you can just apply the fundamental theorem of calculus and arrive at the original function f(x).

For problems where you have an integral from a to a function of x, such as x^2, you can use 'u' substitution and find the derivative of the integral from a to u multiplied by du/dx

What can you do for problems where both the lower and upper bounds are variables, e.g. derivative of an integral from x to x^2-x. How would you approach one of these problems?

I can answer questions of the first two kinds but am stuck on the third type.

You can split the integral into two integrals. For example,
\int_x^{x^2 -x} f(x) dx = \int_x^a f(x) dx + \int_a^{x^2-x} f(x)dx
= -\int_a^x f(x) dx + \int_a^{x^2-x} f(x)dx
 
Thanks a lot!
 
Sorry one more question, how would you deal with finding the derivative if there was another function being multiplied by the integral?

For example, d(x^5 * integral of f(x) from x to x^2-x)/dx?

Do you use the product rule here or is there some other trick?
 
Nevermind I figured it out.

Problems solved.
 

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