Changing limits on an integral

In summary, the equation for relativistic kinetic energy is derived using the integral of d(mv) with respect to time and distance, with the limits changing to be in terms of velocity instead of distance. This is based on the definition of velocity as ds/dt and assumes an object starting from rest and accelerating to a speed v.
  • #1
dimensionless
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I have a textbook with the equation below. The equation is a derivation for relativistic kinetic energy.
[tex]KE = \int_{0}^{s} \frac{d(mv)}{dt}ds = \int_{0}^{mv} v d(mv)[/tex]

I should really know this, but I don't. How do I get from the second expression to the third?
 
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  • #2
dimensionless said:
I have a textbook with the equation below. The equation is a derivation for relativistic kinetic energy.
[tex]KE = \int_{0}^{s} \frac{d(mv)}{dt}ds = \int_{0}^{mv} v d(mv)[/tex]

I should really know this, but I don't. How do I get from the second expression to the third?

[tex]v \equiv \frac{ds}{dt}[/tex] is the definition of v. Since the integral is now an integral of d(mv) then the limits will go in terms of the new integration variable. (I am assuming we are speaking of an object that starts from rest and accelerates somehow to a speed v.)

-Dan
 
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FAQ: Changing limits on an integral

What is the purpose of changing limits on an integral?

Changing limits on an integral allows you to evaluate the integral over a different range of values, which may be more convenient for solving the problem at hand.

How do you change the limits on an integral?

To change the limits on an integral, you can use a substitution or change of variables. This involves replacing the variable of integration with a new variable and adjusting the limits accordingly.

What is the difference between definite and indefinite integrals?

A definite integral has specific limits of integration, while an indefinite integral does not. This means that a definite integral will give a numerical value as the result, while an indefinite integral will give an equation with a constant term.

Can changing the limits on an integral affect the value of the integral?

Yes, changing the limits on an integral can affect the value of the integral. This is because the range of values over which the integral is evaluated changes, which can result in a different numerical value as the final result.

When should I use a change of limits on an integral?

You should use a change of limits on an integral when the original limits are not convenient for solving the problem, or when a particular substitution or change of variables can simplify the integral.

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