Find the indefinite integral by u-sub

In summary, the integral \int1/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,dx can be solved using the substitution u=1+\sqrt{2x} and yields the answer \sqrt{2x}-ln|1+\sqrt{2x}|+C, which is equivalent to the book's answer when the arbitrary constant is taken into account.
  • #1
InaudibleTree
9
0

Homework Statement



[itex]\int1/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,dx[/itex]

Homework Equations



[itex]u=1+\sqrt{2x} \Rightarrow \sqrt{2x}=u-1[/itex]
[itex]du=1/\sqrt{2x}dx \Rightarrow \sqrt{2x}du=dx[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\int1/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,dx = \int\sqrt{2x}/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,du = \int(u-1)/u\,du = \int\,du-\int1/u\,du = u-ln|u|+C = 1+\sqrt{2x}-ln|1+\sqrt{2x}|+C[/itex]

The book I am using has the answer as:
[itex]\sqrt{2x}-ln|1+\sqrt{2x}|+C[/itex]

Where am i going wrong?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
InaudibleTree said:

Homework Statement



[itex]\int1/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,dx[/itex]

Homework Equations



[itex]u=1+\sqrt{2x} \Rightarrow \sqrt{2x}=u-1[/itex]
[itex]du=1/\sqrt{2x}dx \Rightarrow \sqrt{2x}du=dx[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\int1/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,dx = \int\sqrt{2x}/(1+\sqrt{2x})\,du = \int(u-1)/u\,du = \int\,du-\int1/u\,du = u-ln|u|+C = 1+\sqrt{2x}-ln|1+\sqrt{2x}|+C[/itex]

The book I am using has the answer as:
[itex]\sqrt{2x}-ln|1+\sqrt{2x}|+C[/itex]

Where am i going wrong?

That "extra" 1 in your answer can be "absorbed" into the arbitrary constant C (so you can drop the 1). The answers are equivalent.
 
  • #3
Curious3141 said:
That "extra" 1 in your answer can be "absorbed" into the arbitrary constant C (so you can drop the 1). The answers are equivalent.

Oh ok. Thank you curious.
 

FAQ: Find the indefinite integral by u-sub

What is u-substitution in integration?

U-substitution is a technique used in integration to simplify the integrand by substituting a new variable, u, in place of the original variable. This allows us to rewrite the integral in terms of u and then use the rules of integration to solve it.

When should I use u-substitution?

U-substitution is useful when the integrand contains a function within another function, such as an exponential or trigonometric function. It is also helpful when the integrand contains a product of two functions, as it allows us to separate them into two separate integrals.

How do I choose the appropriate u for u-substitution?

The u should be chosen such that the derivative of u, du, appears in the integrand. This allows us to rewrite the integral in terms of u and du, making it easier to solve. It may take some trial and error to find the appropriate u, but it is usually a function that is simpler than the original integrand.

Can I use u-substitution to solve all integrals?

No, u-substitution is not always applicable and may not always lead to a solution. It is most useful for integrands that contain a function within another function or a product of two functions. For other types of integrals, other techniques such as integration by parts or trigonometric substitution may be more effective.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using u-substitution?

One common mistake is forgetting to substitute back for the original variable after solving the integral in terms of u. It is also important to be careful with the limits of integration and make any necessary adjustments. Another mistake is choosing an inappropriate u, which can make the integral more complicated instead of simplifying it.

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