How Do You Solve the Integral Challenge from POTW #231?

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    2016
In summary, the purpose of evaluating the integral of square roots is to find the area under a curve represented by a function with a square root. This can be done using various techniques and is important in fields such as science and engineering. Common mistakes include forgetting to apply the chain rule and not considering the limits of integration. Special cases include using partial fractions and trigonometric identities. The integral of square roots can be applied in real-world situations such as calculating volumes and solving problems in physics and engineering.
  • #1
anemone
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Evaluate \(\displaystyle \int_{0}^{1}\left(\sqrt[4]{1-x^7}-\sqrt[7]{1-x^4}\right) dx\).

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Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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  • #2
Congratulations to Theia for his correct solution::)

Here's the model solution:

Note that for $x,\,y\ge 0$, it holds that $y=\sqrt[7]{1-x^4}$ is equivalent to $y^7+x^4=1$, or $x=\sqrt[4]{1-y^7}$, therefore the two functions are inverse to each other and since both map $[0,\,1]$ to $[0,\,1]$ the two areas must be the same, i.e.

\(\displaystyle \int_{0}^{1}\left(\sqrt[4]{1-x^7}\right) dx=\int_{0}^{1}\left(\sqrt[7]{1-x^4}\right) dx\)

\(\displaystyle \therefore \int_{0}^{1}\left(\sqrt[4]{1-x^7}-\sqrt[7]{1-x^4}\right) dx=0\)
 

FAQ: How Do You Solve the Integral Challenge from POTW #231?

What is the purpose of evaluating the integral of square roots?

The purpose of evaluating the integral of square roots is to find the area under a curve represented by a function with a square root in its expression. This can be useful in various fields of science and engineering, such as calculating volumes, velocities, and other physical quantities.

How is the integral of square roots evaluated?

The integral of square roots can be evaluated using various techniques, such as substitution, integration by parts, or using specific formulas for certain types of square root expressions. It is important to have a good understanding of calculus and integration rules to properly evaluate these types of integrals.

What are some common mistakes when evaluating the integral of square roots?

Some common mistakes when evaluating the integral of square roots include forgetting to apply the chain rule, not considering the limits of integration, and incorrectly applying integration by parts. It is also important to be careful with simplifying square root expressions and to always double-check the final answer for accuracy.

Are there any special cases when evaluating the integral of square roots?

Yes, there are some special cases when evaluating the integral of square roots. For example, when the square root expression is part of a rational function, the integral can be evaluated using partial fractions. Additionally, certain square root expressions can be simplified using trigonometric identities to make the integration process easier.

How can the integral of square roots be applied in real-world situations?

The integral of square roots can be applied in various real-world situations, such as calculating the volume of a cone or the displacement of an object with varying velocity. It can also be used in physics and engineering to solve problems related to motion, energy, and other physical phenomena.

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