Integrating Exponential Functions - Solving by Parts

In summary, an exponential function is a mathematical function used to model growth or decay, and it can be integrated using the power rule or other techniques such as substitution and integration by parts. Its applications include modeling population growth, radioactive decay, and compound interest, as well as calculating work, energy, and power in physics. Negative exponential functions can also be integrated using the same methods as positive exponential functions, with the only difference being the constant of integration. Special techniques such as integration by parts, substitution, and partial fractions can be used to solve more complex integration problems involving exponential functions.
  • #1
forty
135
0
(x^2).e^(-2a(x^2))

how would i integrate this? By parts?

If so using |udv = uv - |vdu (hope that's right)

would i let u = x^2 and dv = e^(-2a(x^2)) ?

but how do I integrate dv = e^(-2a(x^2)) to find v ?

any help appreciated :)
 
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  • #2
I think that integration by parts is the way to go, but there's more than one way to divide things up in this problem.

Try it this way:
u = x, dv = xe-2ax2dx

Now you have a dv that you have a hope of integrating (using an ordinary substitution).
 

Related to Integrating Exponential Functions - Solving by Parts

1. What is an exponential function?

An exponential function is a mathematical function of the form f(x) = a^x, where a is a constant and x is a variable. This function is commonly used to model growth or decay, and its graph is a curve that increases or decreases rapidly.

2. How do you integrate an exponential function?

To integrate an exponential function, you can use the power rule of integration, which states that the integral of a^x is equal to a^(x+1) / (x+1) + C, where C is a constant of integration. In some cases, you may need to use substitution or integration by parts to solve the integral.

3. What are the applications of integrating exponential functions?

Integrating exponential functions has many applications in science and engineering, such as modeling population growth, radioactive decay, and compound interest. It is also used in physics to calculate work, energy, and power.

4. Can you integrate negative exponential functions?

Yes, you can integrate negative exponential functions using the same methods as positive exponential functions. The only difference is that the constant of integration may be negative.

5. Are there any special techniques for integrating exponential functions?

Yes, there are several special techniques for integrating exponential functions, such as integration by parts, substitution, and using partial fractions. These techniques can be helpful in solving more complex integration problems involving exponential functions.

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