Integration by Parts

Definition

Integration by parts is a technique used to integrate products of functions. It is based on the product rule of differentiation and is particularly useful when dealing with the integration of two functions where one can be easily differentiated and the other easily integrated. This method often simplifies complex integrals, allowing for solutions that may not be directly attainable through standard integration techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The formula for integration by parts is given by $$\int u \, dv = uv - \int v \, du$$, where u and v are differentiable functions.
2. This technique is particularly effective for integrals involving logarithmic, polynomial, and exponential functions, as these types often appear in products.
3. When applying integration by parts, it's crucial to choose u and dv wisely; typically, u should be a function that simplifies when differentiated, while dv should be easy to integrate.
4. In some cases, applying integration by parts more than once may be necessary to arrive at a solution, especially in complex integrals.
5. Integration by parts can also be applied in multiple dimensions through iterated integrals, highlighting its relevance in higher-level integration techniques.

Review Questions

• How does integration by parts relate to Fubini's theorem and the process of iterated integrals?
  • Integration by parts can be viewed in the context of Fubini's theorem when dealing with multiple integrals. By applying integration by parts in an iterated integral, you can simplify the process of integrating complex functions over multidimensional regions. The theorem allows you to switch the order of integration, which can sometimes make it easier to apply the integration by parts formula effectively across dimensions.
• What strategies can be employed when choosing which function to assign as u and which as dv in the integration by parts process?
  • When choosing u and dv in integration by parts, it's helpful to use the LIATE rule, which prioritizes functions in the order of Logarithmic, Inverse trigonometric, Algebraic, Trigonometric, and Exponential. This strategy helps identify which function will simplify upon differentiation (u) and which will remain manageable upon integration (dv). Making these choices wisely can significantly streamline the integration process and lead to quicker solutions.
• Evaluate an integral using integration by parts and analyze how it reflects on Fubini's theorem when extended to multiple dimensions.
  • Consider the integral $$\int_0^1 x e^x \, dx$$. We set u = x (which simplifies to 1 when differentiated) and dv = e^x \, dx (which integrates easily to e^x). Applying integration by parts yields $$\int_0^1 x e^x \, dx = [x e^x]_0^1 - \int_0^1 e^x \, dx = (1 e^1 - 0) - [e^x]_0^1 = e - (e - 1) = 1$$. When extended into multiple dimensions, if we have a function defined over a region R, Fubini's theorem allows us to evaluate double integrals as iterated integrals. By applying integration by parts along one dimension first and then integrating across another dimension reflects how these techniques interconnect across different areas of calculus.

Related terms

Product Rule: A rule in calculus that provides a formula for finding the derivative of the product of two functions.

Definite Integral: An integral with specified limits that calculates the net area under the curve of a function between those limits.

U-Substitution: A method for simplifying integrals by substituting a new variable for a part of the integrand, making the integral easier to evaluate.