In integration, what does the +c mean and why does it disappear if you have limits?

When you differentiate, the constant disappears, because it is not dependent of the variable. So when you integrate, you have to add the constant again. However, you can't know the vaulue of c without being further information.
When you integrate with limits, for example x^2+x with the limits of 1 and 4. Integration: 1/3x^3+0,5x^2 + c. 
with limits: 1/3(4)^3 + 0,5(4)^2 + c - 1/3(1)^3 + 0,5(1)^2 + c --> c-c --> the c disappears.

SK
Answered by Susanne K. Maths tutor

10996 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Steve wants to put a hedge along one side of his garden. He needs to buy 27 plants for the hedge. Each plant costs £5.54 Steve has £150 to spend on plants for the hedge. Does Steve have enough money to buy all the plants he needs?


Solve the following simultaneous equations: x^2 + y^2 = 12, x - 2y = 3


(2x+3)/(x-4) - (2x-8)/(2x+1) = 1 Solve for x


Evaluate x^2 +2x -4 = 0


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