Why is Anti Derivative of (1/x-3) Equal to -ln|x+3|?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the anti-derivative of the function 1/(x-3) and the confusion regarding its expression in terms of logarithms, particularly the use of absolute values.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore why the anti-derivative is expressed as -ln|x+3| instead of ln|x-3|, questioning the role of absolute values in the context of negative x.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing examination of the correctness of the expressions for the anti-derivative, with some participants suggesting a potential typo and others reflecting on the implications of absolute values in differentiation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original function is undefined at x=3, which may influence the discussion around the anti-derivative.

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Why is the anti derivative of 1/(x-3) equal to -ln[tex]\left|x+3\right|[/tex]. Why isn't it just ln[tex]\left|x-3\right|[/tex]. Does it have something to do with the absolute value? Thanks.
 
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for negative x?

using just log |x-3| defines the differentiation function for pos x only
 
it's not -ln|x+3| and is in fact ln|x-3| . Take the derivative of your first answer and second and see which one works.
 
Alright so I'm guessing there was a typo. Thanks for your help.
 
d/dx (log |x-3|) != 1/(x-3)
for x element of (-inf, inf) for sure! edit: wrong

ooops.. my mistake. I was ignoring the absolute part
 
Last edited:
rootX said:
d/dx (log |x-3|) != 1/(x-3)
for x element of (-inf, inf) for sure!

For [itex]x \neq 3[/itex]
 
the original function is undefined for x=3 also btw.
 

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