Integration techniques
Rewrite first; choose parts when differentiation simplifies one factor
- Rational functions Divide if improper, decompose, integrate each term and keep the original domain
- Squared circular functions Use (1∓cos2t)/2 before integrating, including the doubled frequency
- Parts ∫u dv=uv−∫v du. Repeated parts may lower a polynomial degree or return an integral to solve for
- Definite form Evaluate both endpoint product terms and keep the remaining integral on the same bounds
- Check Differentiate a primitive; check the full interval before endpoint subtraction
Worked example
Find a primitive using parts and verify it
- \(\displaystyle u=x,\quad dv=6\sin(3x)dx,\quad du=dx,\quad v=-2\cos(3x)\)Differentiating x simplifies one factor; integrate the circular factor with its sign and scale
- \(\displaystyle -2x\cos(3x)+2\int\cos(3x)dx\)Apply uv−∫v du, distributing the negative sign
- \(\displaystyle -2x\cos(3x)+\frac23\sin(3x)+C\)The derivative has cancelling cosine terms and leaves 6x sin(3x)
Common mistakes
Difficulty levels
Questions about this topic
Is there always exactly one suitable method?+
No. Recognition, substitution and partial fractions may lead to the same primitive. Justify a valid efficient route
Is a zero coefficient permitted?+
Yes. It does not restore a point excluded by the original denominator
Why are exact primitive forms supplied?+
The current response contract grades coefficient construction. It does not assess unrestricted symbolic equivalence or a full written derivation
Can I use a calculator?+
No. This topic is practised without a calculator
Which year level and chapter is this?+
Year 12, VCE Units 3 & 4, Specialist Mathematics, chapter 5: Integral calculus