How can you find the integral of x^-1

The traditional rule for integration of a variable raised to a power is to raise the power by 1 and divide the answer by that new exponent. However, this rule leads to an answer of x^0 = 1, which can't be right. It's not. The integral of x^-1 = 1/x is the natural logarithm of x, or lnx. Likewise, the derivative of lnx is x^-1, and this is an especially important rule to remember for things like differential equations in the future. 

AL
Answered by Angus L. Maths tutor

56997 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

x^2 - 10x + 21 = 0


How do you work out the equation for a line?


Solve the equation 4(3x-2)=2x-5


FIRSTLY: John has a slice of pizza in the exact shape of an isosceles triangle. 2 sides measure Y + 5 and 1 side measures Y – 2. Write an expression for the total perimeter. SECONDLY: Multiply out the following brackets: (3Y + 8)(3Y + 2)


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences