Methods of Integration

Michael Green
7 min read
Study Guide Overview
This guide covers integrating composite functions using the reverse chain rule. It explains how to identify the main function, adjust and compensate for coefficients, and integrate functions raised to a power. It also details the special case of integrating f'(x)/f(x), provides practice questions and a glossary of key terms.
#Integrating Composite Functions
#Table of Contents
- Introduction to Integrating Composite Functions
- Steps for Integrating Composite Functions
- Special Case: Function Raised to a Power
- Integrating
- Practice Questions
- Glossary
- Summary and Key Takeaways
#Introduction to Integrating Composite Functions
#What is Meant by Integrating Composite Functions?
Integrating composite functions refers to the process of integrating by inspection, often using the reverse chain rule. This method involves recognizing that the chain rule used in differentiation can be reversed for integration.
This method is particularly useful for integrating the product of a composite function and the derivative of its inside function.
In function notation, this method is used to integrate expressions of the form:
By the chain rule:
Since differentiation and integration are inverse operations:
If coefficients do not match exactly, you can use the method of 'adjust and compensate'.
#Example of Adjust and Compensate
Consider the integral:
Here, is not quite the derivative of because:
To adjust and compensate, we rewrite:
#Steps for Integrating Composite Functions
#Step 1: Identify the Main Function
Spot the main function in the integral. For example, in:
The main function is which would come from .
#Step 2: Adjust and Compensate
Adjust and compensate any coefficients required in the integral. For example:
Would differentiate to:
By the chain rule, multiply by the derivative of , which is . Adjust and compensate:
#Step 3: Integrate and Simplify
Integrate and simplify the expression. For example:
Is the exact derivative of:
So:
After some practice, you may find Step 2 is not needed because you can do it in your head.
Do use the adjust and compensate method on more awkward questions involving negatives and fractions!
#Special Case: Function Raised to a Power
#Integrating a Function Raised to a Power
One common example is integrating a function raised to a power. The general pattern is:
Step-by-step:
- Identify the main function:
- Adjust and compensate:
- Integrate and simplify:
#Integrating
#How to Integrate ?
A particularly useful special case of integrating composite functions is:
This pattern occurs when the numerator of a fraction being integrated is the derivative of the denominator.
Recognize this pattern to speed up and simplify integrals of this sort.
#Example of Adjust and Compensate
Consider the integral:
Adjust and compensate:
Don't forget the modulus sign in the answer when finding integrals of this form.
#Worked Example
#Example: Finding an Expression for
Let be a function whose derivative, , is given by:
Given that the graph of passes through the point , find an expression for .
Solution:
Use:
- Identify the main function:
- Recognize that comes from , so use the chain rule:
- Adjust and compensate:
- Integrate:
Since the graph of goes through :
Therefore:
#Practice Questions
Practice Question
Question 1: Evaluate the integral:
Solution:
Identify the main function:
Adjust and compensate:
Integrate and simplify:
Practice Question
Question 2: Find the indefinite integral:
Solution:
Recognize the pattern:
Identify , so .
Therefore:
#Glossary
- Composite Function: A function composed of two or more functions, such as .
- Chain Rule: A fundamental rule in calculus used to differentiate composite functions.
- Adjust and Compensate: A technique used to handle coefficients that do not match exactly in integration.
- Main Function: The primary function being integrated, often identified by its structure.
- Inverse Operations: Operations that undo each other, such as differentiation and integration.
#Summary and Key Takeaways
#Summary
- Integrating composite functions involves using the reverse chain rule.
- Identify the main function and adjust and compensate for coefficients.
- Special cases include functions raised to a power and integrals of the form .
- Always check your work by differentiating if possible.
#Key Takeaways
- Recognize patterns in integrals to simplify the process.
- Use the adjust and compensate method for coefficients.
- Practice spotting the main function and applying the reverse chain rule.
#Exam Strategy
- Identify Patterns: Quickly recognize patterns like to speed up integration.
- Check Work: If time allows, differentiate your result to ensure it matches the original function.
- Adjust and Compensate: Don't forget to adjust and compensate for coefficients.
#Real-World Applications
Integrating composite functions is useful in physics for calculating areas, volumes, and solving differential equations that model real-world phenomena.
Encouragement: Keep practicing! The more you work with these integrals, the more intuitive they will become. Good luck!
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