How Is the Integral of $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ Related to the Sine Integral Function?

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In summary, the purpose of integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ is to find the area under the curve of the function, which has many applications in mathematics and physics. The general process for integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ involves using integration techniques to simplify the expression and then integrating it using the fundamental theorem of calculus. There are two special cases when integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$, and common mistakes to avoid include forgetting the constant of integration and incorrectly applying trigonometric identities or integration techniques. In real-life applications, integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ can be useful in solving problems involving periodic motion, as well as in engineering and physics to determine work or power.
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[tex]\int \frac{\sin x}{x }dx [/tex]
 
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That anti-derivative cannot be written in terms of elementary functions. It can be written easily in terms of the "sine integral" function, Si(x):
[tex]\int \frac {sin(x)}{x} dx= Si(x)[/tex]
because that is exactly how Si(x) is defined!
 

FAQ: How Is the Integral of $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ Related to the Sine Integral Function?

What is the purpose of integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$?

The purpose of integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ is to find the area under the curve of the function. This can be useful in various applications of mathematics and physics.

What is the general process for integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$?

The general process for integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ involves using integration techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or trigonometric identities to simplify the expression and then integrating it using the fundamental theorem of calculus.

Are there any special cases when integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$?

Yes, there are two special cases when integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$: when the limits of integration include 0, and when the limits of integration are from negative infinity to positive infinity. In these cases, special techniques such as Cauchy's integral theorem may be required.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$?

One common mistake is forgetting to include the constant of integration when using the fundamental theorem of calculus. Another mistake is incorrectly applying trigonometric identities or integration techniques, so it is important to double-check the steps taken during the integration process.

How can integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ be useful in real-life applications?

Integrating $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ can be used to solve problems involving periodic motion, such as finding the displacement or velocity of an object over a given time interval. It can also be used in engineering and physics to determine the work done by a force or the power output of a system.

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