Why Does Wolfram Alpha Show a Different Exponential Integration Result?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of exponential functions, specifically the integral of the form ∫(2/3)^{x} dx. Participants are examining the differences in results obtained from personal calculations and those provided by Wolfram Alpha, particularly focusing on the logarithmic components involved in the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to reconcile their own integration results with those from Wolfram Alpha, questioning the validity of their logarithmic manipulations and the appearance of negative signs in the results. Some are exploring the implications of logarithmic identities and the correct application of logarithm rules.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the differences in results, with some participants providing clarifications regarding logarithmic properties. However, there is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the various interpretations presented, and multiple viewpoints are being discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion over the application of logarithmic rules, particularly in relation to the integration of exponential functions. There are references to previous misunderstandings in similar threads, indicating a recurring theme in the discussion.

izen
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Homework Statement



exponential integration formula [itex]∫a^{u} du = \frac {a^{u}}{ln(a)} +c[/itex]

∫ [itex]\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)^{x} dx[/itex]

Homework Equations



[itex]\frac{}{}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



∫ [itex]\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)^{x} dx[/itex]

= [itex]\frac{\left(2/3 \right)^{x}}{ln(2)/ln(3)}[/itex] <<< this is my answer ?= - [itex]\frac{\left(2/3 \right)^{x}}{ln(3)/ln(2)}[/itex] << this answer from wolframalpha why ln(3)/ln(2) not ln(2)/ln(3) and where the minus comes from

please advisethank you
 
Last edited:
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It's just logarithm rules:

[itex]\log{a^{b}}=b\log{a}[/itex]

Btw, you can compare if two expressions are equivalent in Wolfram with " -(2/3)^x/(ln(3/2))==(2/3)^x/(ln(2/3)) ". As you can see, the output is "True".

EDIT: I'm assuming you meant ln(3/2) and ln(2/3) instead of ln(3)/ln(2) and ln(2)/ln(3), as the former is 1) correct and 2) what Wolfram actually gives as an answer.
 
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thank you
 
None of the answers you have mentioned is correct. You have done the same mistake again as you did in your previous threads.

[tex]\ln \frac{a}{b}≠\frac{\ln a}{\ln b}[/tex]
 
izen said:

Homework Statement



exponential integration formula [itex]∫a^{u} du = \frac {a^{u}}{ln(a)} +c[/itex]

∫ [itex]\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)^{x} dx[/itex]

Homework Equations

Both of the following answers are incorrect.

The Attempt at a Solution



∫ [itex]\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)^{x} dx[/itex]

= [itex]\frac{\left(2/3 \right)^{x}}{ln(2)/ln(3)}[/itex] <<< this is my answer ?

= - [itex]\frac{\left(2/3 \right)^{x}}{ln(3)/ln(2)}[/itex] << this answer from wolframalpha why ln(3)/ln(2) not ln(2)/ln(3) and where the minus comes from

please advise

thank you
Actually, WolframAlpha gives:

[itex]\displaystyle \int \left(\frac{2}{3}\right)^{x} dx=-\frac{\left(2/3 \right)^{x}}{\ln(3/2)}+\text{constant}\ .[/itex]

As for the minus sign: [itex]\displaystyle \ \ \ln\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)=\ln\left(\frac{3}{2} \right)^{-1}\!\!=(-1)\ln\left(\frac{3}{2}\right)\ .[/itex]

I see Pranav-Arora beat me to it!   (Way to go, P-A !)

Added in Edit:

By the way:

[itex]\displaystyle \ln\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)=\ln(2)-\ln(3)[/itex]

On the other hand: [itex]\displaystyle \ \ \frac{\ln(2)}{\ln(3)}=\log_{\,3}(2) \ .[/itex]
 
Last edited:
Pranav-Arora said:
None of the answers you have mentioned is correct. You have done the same mistake again as you did in your previous threads.

[tex]\ln \frac{a}{b}≠\frac{\ln a}{\ln b}[/tex]
ohhh I have to be more careful about this

Thank you Pranav-Arora

Thank you Sammy for the clarification
 

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