Usually the first application of integration is to find the area bounded by a function and the x-axis, followed by finding the area between two functions. We begin with these problems First some calculator hints Graphing Integrals using a graphing calculator to graph functions defined by integrals Graphing Calculator Use and Definition Integrals – Exam…
Behind every definite integral is a Riemann sums. Students need to know about Riemann sums so that they can understand definite integrals (a shorthand notation for the limit if a Riemann sum) and the Fundamental theorem of Calculus. Theses posts help prepare students for Riemann sums. Integration Itinerary Some thoughts on the order of topics…
In this post we look at another part of the AP Calculus BC exam. Good Question 15 discussed the unusual units in 2018 BC 2(a). In this post we look at 2018 BC 2(b) where units help us find the correct integral to answer the question. How do you answer a question of a type…
Given equations that define a region in the plane students are asked to find its area, the volume of the solid formed when the region is revolved around a line, and/or the region is used as a base of a solid with regular cross-sections. This standard application of the integral has appeared every year since…
There is a difference between mathematics and the “real world”: In the real world you are allowed to do whatever you want, as long as there is no law against doing it; in mathematics, you cannot do something unless there is a law that says you may. A question that comes up often on the…
Integration, at its basic level, is addition. A definite integral is a sum (a Riemann sum). When you add things you get an amount of whatever you are adding: you accumulate. Here are some previous posts on this important idea that often shows up on the AP Calculus exams (usually the first free-response question!) Accumulation:…
One of the major applications of integration is to find the volumes of various solid figures. Volume of Solids with Regular Cross-sections This is where to start with volume problems. After all, solids of revolution are just a special case of solids with regular cross-sections. Volumes of Revolution Subtract the Hole from the Whole and…
