Solve Indefinite Integral: U Substitution

In summary, the student is asking for the indefinite integral of the given equation from their lecture notes. They attempt to use u-substitution but complicate the process and are reminded of the basic formula for integrating x^n.
  • #1
The Subject
32
0

Homework Statement


Im looking over the notes in my lecture and the prof wrote,
[tex] \int_{0}^{2} \pi(4x^2-x^4)dx=\frac{64\pi}{15} [/tex]
Im wondering what's the indefinite integral of this equation.

Homework Equations


using u substitution

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex] \int \pi(4x^2-x^4)dx= \pi \int x^2(4-x^2)dx \\
u = 4 - x^2 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \
-\frac {1}{2} du =xdx \\
[/tex]

Im confuse since i have an x^2 but my du=x.

I attempted to also use from u to get,
[tex]
x=\sqrt{4-u} \\
\pi \int \frac{1}{2}u\sqrt{4-u}dx
[/tex]
but it seems this made the formula harder to integrate...or am i just giving up too quickly
 
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  • #2
The Subject said:

Homework Statement


Im looking over the notes in my lecture and the prof wrote,
[tex] \int_{0}^{2} \pi(4x^2-x^4)dx=\frac{64\pi}{15} [/tex]
Im wondering what's the indefinite integral of this equation.

Homework Equations


using u substitution

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex] \int \pi(4x^2-x^4)dx= \pi \int x^2(4-x^2)dx \\
u = 4 - x^2 \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \
-\frac {1}{2} du =xdx \\
[/tex]

Im confuse since i have an x^2 but my du=x.

I attempted to also use from u to get,
[tex]
x=\sqrt{4-u} \\
\pi \int \frac{1}{2}u\sqrt{4-u}dx
[/tex]
but it seems this made the formula harder to integrate...or am i just giving up too quickly
You are making this far too complicated.

What is ##\int x^n dx##, (for ##n \geq 1##)?
 
  • #3
That makes sense...

I was working on a bunch of u sub equations earlier. I guess I was on a u sub mode

Thanks a lot!
 

What is "U substitution"?

"U substitution" is a technique used in calculus to solve indefinite integrals. It involves substituting a variable, typically denoted as "u", for a more complicated expression in the integral. This allows for easier integration and often leads to a simpler solution.

When should I use "U substitution"?

"U substitution" can be used when the integrand (the expression being integrated) contains a function within a function, or when it contains a product or quotient of functions. It can also be useful when the integrand contains a trigonometric function.

How do I perform "U substitution"?

To perform "U substitution", follow these steps:
1. Identify the part of the integral that is more complicated and that you want to substitute with "u".
2. Substitute "u" for this expression.
3. Find the derivative of "u", denoted as du.
4. Rewrite the integral in terms of "u" and du.
5. Solve the new integral using basic integration techniques.

Is "U substitution" the only way to solve indefinite integrals?

No, "U substitution" is not the only way to solve indefinite integrals. There are other techniques such as integration by parts, trigonometric substitution, and partial fractions, which may be more appropriate depending on the integrand.

Are there any limitations to using "U substitution"?

Yes, there are certain limitations to using "U substitution". For example, it may not be effective when the integrand contains multiple nested functions or when the integral is improper. It is important to consider the complexity of the integral and the potential for other techniques before using "U substitution".

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