Integration by subsitution (give constant value), why?

In summary: Yes, in the end, the constant you get is correct, unless more information is given. However, the substitution method does provide "2" constants, in addition to the "real" constant.
  • #1
invictor
6
0
[itex]\int(x^{2}-5)^{2}x dx[/itex]

By substiution:
1. [itex]u = x^{2}-5[/itex]

2. [itex]du = 2x dx[/itex]

3. [itex]\frac{du}{2x}= dx[/itex]

4. [itex]\int u^{2}x \frac{du}{2x}[/itex]

5. [itex]\int u^{2} \frac{1}{2} du[/itex]

6. [itex] \frac{1}{3} u^{3} \frac{1}{2}[/itex]

7. [itex] \frac{1}{6} u^{3}[/itex]

8. [itex] \frac{1}{6} (x^{2}-5)^{3}[/itex]

9. [itex] \frac{1}{6} [x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2} +125][/itex]By normal integration factorize the from beginning

from: [itex]\int(x^{2}-5)^{2}x dx[/itex]to [itex]\int [x^{4} - 10x^{2} + 25 ] x dx[/itex]

then: [itex]\int x^{5} - 10x^{3} + 25x dx[/itex]

and finally : [itex] \frac{1}{6} [x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2}] + C[/itex]Probably this is a easy one, i been looking on internet, but had hard time to find the right keywords for an explanation...

Question is: the one give me some kind of constant and the other i just add one.. Which one is correct? I mean both gives same result except of one provide a "real" constant value.
 
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  • #2
A constant should be added in the 6th step of method one.The answers tally.
 
  • #3
You blundered on step 6. When integrating, you must always add an arbitrary constant after integrating. The cool thing though, is that any constant you get at the end is correct (unless more information is given). There's an infinite number of answers you can get. As long as your constant is a real number, you're fine. That's why we just add a constant C to be general.
 
  • #4
Aha yes my fault but this doesn't explain why i get 125 value from the first method

since unfactorise [itex](x^{2} - 5)^{3} = x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2} - 125[/itex]
 
  • #5
So why does both methods differs -125/6 ?
 
  • #6
Sorry I will correct this into new post

By substiution:
1. [itex]u = x^{2}-5[/itex]

2. [itex]du = 2x dx[/itex]

3. [itex]\frac{du}{2x}= dx[/itex]

4. [itex]\int u^{2}x \frac{du}{2x}[/itex]

5. [itex]\int u^{2} \frac{1}{2} du[/itex]

6. [itex] \frac{1}{3} u^{3} \frac{1}{2} + C[/itex]

7. [itex] \frac{1}{6} u^{3} +C[/itex]

8. [itex] \frac{1}{6} (x^{2}-5)^{3} +C[/itex]

9. [itex] \frac{1}{6} [x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2} +125] +C[/itex]

So comparing substitution method and normal unfactor in beginning give me different answer

[itex] \frac{1}{6} [x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2} +125] +C \neq \frac{1}{6} [x^{6} - 15x^{4} + 75x^{2}] + C[/itex]

Where a value of 126/6 appears (a constant), so the substitution method gives me "2" constants? but 126/6 + C = C ?

Or did i make any mistake somewhere? I mean I know C can be anything sure, but shoulnt C be same for both methods?
 

FAQ: Integration by subsitution (give constant value), why?

What is integration by substitution and why is it useful?

Integration by substitution is a method used to solve integrals by substituting a variable with a function. This allows for more complex integrals to be simplified and solved. It is useful because it can be applied to a wide range of integrals and makes the solving process more efficient.

How do you determine the constant value in integration by substitution?

The constant value in integration by substitution is determined by using the initial conditions or boundary values of the integral. These values are often given in the problem or can be found by evaluating the integral at specific points. The constant value is important as it allows for the integral to be fully solved.

Can you explain the steps involved in integration by substitution?

The first step in integration by substitution is to identify a function to substitute for the variable in the integral. Then, take the derivative of this function and use it to replace the variable in the integral. Next, solve the new integral and substitute the original variable back in. Finally, solve for the constant value using the given initial conditions or boundary values.

When should integration by substitution be used?

Integration by substitution should be used when the integral contains a function that can be simplified by substitution. This method is particularly useful for integrals with trigonometric, exponential, or logarithmic functions. It is also helpful when the integrand contains a product of functions or a composition of functions.

Are there any limitations to integration by substitution?

Yes, there are limitations to integration by substitution. This method may not work for all integrals, especially those that do not contain a single variable. It also may not be the most efficient method for some integrals and may require additional steps or techniques to solve. Additionally, it may be challenging to determine the appropriate substitution function for some integrals.

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