What is the mistake in calculating the integral of the absolute sine function?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the integral of the absolute sine function, specifically the integral from 0 to 2018π of |sin(2018x)|. Participants are examining the periodic nature of the sine function and its implications for calculating the area under the curve.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the periodicity of the sine function and the area of its "humps." There is an attempt to calculate the total area by counting the number of periods and multiplying by the area of one period. Questions arise regarding the correctness of the area calculation for each hump and the overall approach.

Discussion Status

Some participants have identified a potential mistake in the calculations and are exploring the reasoning behind the area of the sine function's humps. There is an acknowledgment of misunderstanding, but no consensus on the resolution of the problem has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the extent of guidance provided. There is a specific focus on understanding the properties of the sine function and its integral without providing direct solutions.

dirk_mec1
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Homework Statement


\int_0^{2018 \pi} \lvert \sin(2018x) \lvert \mbox{d}x

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


So the period is:
\frac{2 \pi}{ 2018}

Each "hump" of the sine has an area of 2 so if I count the number of humps I am done. In one period of an absolute sine function the area is thus 4.

So the requested area is:

4 \cdot \frac{2018 \pi}{\frac{2 \pi}{ 2018} } = 2 \cdot 2018^2

I am off by a factor of 2018. Where is my mistake?
 
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dirk_mec1 said:

Homework Statement


\int_0^{2018 \pi} \lvert \sin(2018x) \lvert \mbox{d}x

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


So the period is:
\frac{2 \pi}{ 2018}

Each "hump" of the sine has an area of 2 so if I count the number of humps I am done. In one period of an absolute sine function the area is thus 4.

So the requested area is:

4 \cdot \frac{2018 \pi}{\frac{2 \pi}{ 2018} } = 2 \cdot 2018^2

I am off by a factor of 2018. Where is my mistake?
What is ##\int sin(2018x) dx##?
 
1/2018 * -cos(2018x) + C.

Why do you ask?
 
dirk_mec1 said:
Each "hump" of the sine has an area of 2
Can you prove this?
 
Thanks. I understand my mistake!
 

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