When do you know to use integration by parts?

You use integration by parts if there's more than one function of x. For example; to integrate xsin(x) you'd use integration by parts as this is two functions of x. The formula to remember is I(udv) = uv - I(vdu) For xsin(x) you would set u = x, and dv = sin(x). So du = 1, and v = -cos(x). Putting theses values into the formula gives you; I(xsin(x))= -xcos(x) - I(-cos(x)) = -xcos(x) + sin(x) However, for x(x + 2) you wouldn't use integration by parts as this is equal to x2 + 2x which is one function of x.

NL
Answered by Natasha L. Maths tutor

4003 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

If given two parametric equations for a curve, how would you work out an equation for the gradient?


Given that y = (1 + 3x^2)^(1/3) , use the chain rule to find dy/dx in terms of x.


How can I find all the solutions to cos(3x) = sqrt(2)/2 for 0<=x<=2pi ?


What is the equation of the normal line to the curve y = 3x^3 - 6x^2 at the point (1, 4)?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning