Power Rule Integration
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Introduction:
In calculus, the power rule for integration is a fundamental technique used to find the antiderivative or integral of a function that involves a power of a variable.
Understanding the Power Rule for Integration:
The power rule is applied to functions of the form f(x) = x^n, where n is a constant and not equal to -1.
This rule simplifies the process of integrating polynomial functions.
Formula of the Power Rule for Integration:
The formula states that the integral of x^n with respect to x is: ∫x^n dx = (x^(n+1))/(n+1) + C, where:
n is the exponent in the original function.
(n+1) is the new exponent after integration.
(n+1) in the denominator is used to balance the equation.
C represents the constant of integration.
Example:
To integrate f(x) = x²:
Apply the power rule: ∫x² dx = (x^(2+1))/(2+1) + C.
Simplify: ∫x² dx = x³/3 + C.
Key Points to Remember:
The power rule for integration is not applicable when n = -1, as it leads to a logarithmic function.
Always add the constant of integration (C) when integrating indefinite integrals.