Finding the appropriate transformation to apply to an integral

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of evaluating the integral \int_0^1 \! \int_0^{1-x} \! \sqrt{x+y} \left(y-2x\right)^{2} \, \, \mathrm{d}y \, \mathrm{d}x by applying the appropriate transformation. The suggested transformation of u=1-x and v=x+y is deemed to be a good one, leading to an integral that is not too difficult to evaluate. However, Wolfram suggests that the correct answer should be 2/9, while the integral obtained through the suggested transformation gives a result of 1892/315, which Wolfram agrees with. A possible mistake in the transformation
  • #1
Pr0grammer
5
0

Homework Statement


Evaluate [tex]\int_0^1 \! \int_0^{1-x} \! \sqrt{x+y} \left(y-2x\right)^{2} \, \, \mathrm{d}y \, \mathrm{d}x.[/tex] by applying the appropriate transformation.

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


So far, the best I can come up with is u=1-x, v=x+y, which gives me [tex]\int_0^1 \! \int_0^u \! \sqrt{v} \left(v-3-3u\right)^{2} \, \, \mathrm{d}v \, \mathrm{d}u.[/tex].

I know how to evaluate it after applying the transformation. As far as I can tell, one of the transformations should be 1-x to deal with the limit, and the other should be x+y to deal with the square root. I was wondering if there was a better way to do the transformation, though, since it still seems like it might be somewhat painful to integrate.
 
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  • #2
That was actually a very good transformation. The integral you end up with is not that hard, is it?
 
  • #3
Wolfram suggests that the correct answer should be 2/9: http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=int+(sqrt(x%2By)(y-2x)^2)+dy+dx,+x%3D0+to+1,+y%3D0+to+1-x+

However, after evaluating my transformation, I got 1892/315, which Wolfram agreed with: http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=int+(sqrt(v)(v-3u-3)^2)+dv+du,+v%3D0+to+u,+u%3D0+to+1

Any idea where the mistake might be? (Also, I got -1 for the Jacobian from x=1-u and y=u+v-1. Is that right?)
 

FAQ: Finding the appropriate transformation to apply to an integral

What is a transformation in regards to integrals?

A transformation in the context of integrals refers to a change in variables that allows for a simpler or more manageable form of the integral to be solved. This change in variables can involve substitutions, operations, or other mathematical techniques.

When should I use a transformation to solve an integral?

A transformation should be used when the original form of the integral is too complex or difficult to solve. By applying a transformation, the integral can be simplified and potentially solved using basic integration techniques.

How do I know which transformation to apply?

Choosing the appropriate transformation depends on the form of the integral and the goal of the transformation. Some common transformations include trigonometric substitutions, u-substitutions, and integration by parts. It is important to carefully analyze the integral and determine which transformation will result in the simplest form.

Can a transformation change the limits of integration?

Yes, a transformation can change the limits of integration. This is because the change in variables can result in a different range of values for the new variable. It is important to adjust the limits accordingly when applying a transformation.

Are there any rules or guidelines for applying transformations to integrals?

There are no specific rules for applying transformations to integrals, but there are some general guidelines that can be followed. These include identifying the goal of the transformation, choosing the appropriate transformation, adjusting the limits of integration, and checking the solution by substituting the original variable back in.

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