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Introduction to Integrals

Aug 10, 2025

Overview

This lecture introduces the concept of integrals (antiderivatives), explains their relationship to derivatives, presents basic integral formulas and properties, and distinguishes between definite and indefinite integrals.

Derivatives Review

  • The derivative of (y = x^n) is (n \cdot x^{n-1}).
  • Differentiating a constant results in zero.
  • The derivative process moves from the original function to its rate of change.

Integral as Antiderivative

  • Integrals reverse the process of differentiation.
  • The integral of (x^n) is (\frac{1}{n+1}x^{n+1} + C), where (C) is an arbitrary constant.
  • Indefinite integrals include (+ C) due to unknown initial constants.

Examples of Basic Integrals

  • (\int x^3 dx = \frac{1}{4}x^4 + C)
  • (\int x^5 dx = \frac{1}{6}x^6 + C)
  • (\int x^{-3} dx = -\frac{1}{2}x^{-2} + C)
  • (\int \sqrt{x},dx = \frac{2}{3}x^{3/2} + C)

Properties of Indefinite Integrals

  • The integral of a sum/difference is the sum/difference of the integrals.
  • Constants can be factored out: (\int a \cdot f(x)dx = a\int f(x)dx).
  • The integral of a constant (a) is (a x + C).

Definite Integrals

  • Definite integrals have limits: (\int_a^b f(x)dx = F(b) - F(a)), where (F(x)) is the antiderivative.
  • The constant (C) is not included in definite integrals.

Properties of Definite Integrals

  • (\int_a^a f(x)dx = 0) for any function.
  • Swapping limits changes the sign: (\int_a^b f(x)dx = -\int_b^a f(x)dx).
  • Splitting intervals: (\int_a^b f(x)dx = \int_a^c f(x)dx + \int_c^b f(x)dx).

Handling Products and Complicated Integrals

  • Do not integrate products or quotients by integrating each part separately.
  • Rewrite expressions using exponent rules to fit basic integral formulas.
  • For complex integrals (e.g., products raised to a power), integration techniques such as substitution or partial integration are needed.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Derivative — The rate of change of a function.
  • Integral — The reverse process of differentiation; also called an antiderivative.
  • Indefinite Integral — An integral without upper and lower limits; includes a constant (C).
  • Definite Integral — An integral evaluated between two limits; produces a numerical value.
  • Integration Techniques — Methods to simplify complex integrals, such as substitution and partial integration.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the rules and properties of integrals.
  • Practice rewriting expressions to match basic integral forms.
  • Prepare to learn integration techniques (substitution, partial integration) in future lessons.