Substitution Method on indefinite integral

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the justification of using the substitution method for solving the indefinite integral ∫x√(2x+1) dx. Participants explore the application of the substitution rule in integration, particularly in the context of transforming the integral into a different variable.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the integral ∫x√(2x+1) dx and outlines a substitution method involving u = 2x + 1, questioning the justification for the transformation applied.
  • Another participant asserts that the justification lies in the substitution rule for integration, emphasizing that it is acceptable to reference this rule without deriving every step.
  • A different participant expresses concern that the transformation does not fit the standard form of the substitution rule, seeking clarification on how the substitution theorem applies in this case.
  • Further replies clarify that the substitution can be viewed as applying the rule in reverse, detailing the relationships between the functions involved and the derivatives.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the justification of the substitution method. Some agree on the validity of the substitution rule, while others challenge its application in this specific case, indicating a lack of agreement on the interpretation of the theorem.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the application of the substitution theorem, particularly in identifying the functions and derivatives involved in the transformation. There are also mentions of the differences between definite and indefinite integrals in the context of substitution.

Chsoviz0716
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Say we are solving an indefinite integral ∫x√(2x+1) dx.

According to the textbook, the solution goes like this.

Let u = 2x+1. Then x = (u-1)/2.

Since √(2x+1) dx = (1/2)√u du,
x√(2x+1) dx = [(u-1)/2] * (1/2)√u du.

∫x√(2x+1) dx = ∫[(u-1)/2] * (1/2)√u du. <= What justifies this??
The rest is just trivial calculation.

The only theorem I could rely on here to solve this problem was,

-------------------------------------------------------------------
If u=g(x) is a differentiable function whose range is an interval I, and f is continuous no I, then
∫f(g(x))g'(x) dx = ∫f(u) du.
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Which is so called the substitution rule.

How can this theorem justify the process of the solution I wrote above?
 
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Hey Chsoviz0716 and welcome to the forums.

The justification for this is just the substitution rule for integration.

If we had to derive everything like this all the time we wouldn't get anything done in reality. It is ok to just say 'substitution rule' and then say what substitution you used (like you already did).

The difference between these kinds of rules for definite and indefinite integrals is that with the definite integral you need to also transform the limits whereas the indefinite one you don't.

Also make sure to put your constant of integration for indefinite (pain in the arse but yeah has to be done). Remember that you can always find your constant C by using your initial condition at x = 0 for a normal (x,y) function.
 
chiro said:
Hey Chsoviz0716 and welcome to the forums.

The justification for this is just the substitution rule for integration.

Thank you for the reply.

But what I'm trying to say is that the kind I mentioned above isn't the type that has the form of ∫f(g(x))*g'(x) dx, to which we can apply substitution rule directly.

And the solution kind of distorted the theorem and solved it in a weird way.

If ∫2(2x+4)^5 dx becomes ∫u^5 du, I accept that because the theorem explicitly approves of it.

However, the one I wrote above is different.
To be specific, how is ∫x√(2x+1) dx = ∫[(u-1)/2] * (1/2)√u du the consequence of the substitution theorem? What's f, g, g' here?
 
You use the substitution rule backwards: right hand side to left hand side. We want to evaluate
\int x \sqrt{2x + 1} dx.
We let f(x) = x \sqrt{2x+1}
We let x = (y-1)/2
So then x&#039;(y) = 1/2
So
\int f(x) dx = \int f(x(y)) x&#039;(y) dy
\int x \sqrt{2x+1} dx = \int \frac{y-1}{2}\, \sqrt{y} \, \frac{1}{2} \, dy
 
pwsnafu said:
You use the substitution rule backwards: right hand side to left hand side. We want to evaluate
\int x \sqrt{2x + 1} dx.
We let f(x) = x \sqrt{2x+1}
We let x = (y-1)/2
So then x&#039;(y) = 1/2
So
\int f(x) dx = \int f(x(y)) x&#039;(y) dy
\int x \sqrt{2x+1} dx = \int \frac{y-1}{2}\, \sqrt{y} \, \frac{1}{2} \, dy

Thank you,

It missed such an easy point.
 

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