Can You Solve This Integral From Cambridge University?


Preview image


A TMUA Math Problem

The absolute value function does not have follow any elementary integration rules. We can however bypass this by considering its graph.

This fun integral challenge comes from TMUA, a test by Cambridge University for students looking to study Computer Science at the university 💻

I recommend you pause the article, grab your pen and paper, and give this a go. When you are ready, keep reading for the solution! ✒️

Solution

The trickiest part about this problem is the absolute value function |x|.

What we will do is to split the integral into two, first integrating from x = -1 to x = 0, then from x = 0 to x = 3.

None

Since the values are negative in the first integral, |x| = -x.

Equally the values are positive in the second integral, so |x| = x.

None

We then expand the brackets

None

Now I trust that you are capable of integrating using reverse power rule.

And you should get the following!

None

And that's our answer.

How amazing 🐉

What was your thought process this time? Comment down below, I am eager to know :) 🏹

Save and share the following list for the best math puzzles on Medium👇

Thank you for reading. Don't forget to clap the article if you find it insightful.

None
tip me 👑, i will thank you a million times

I put a lot of time and effort into writing every article for you, so please buy me a coffee☕ if you are feeling generous. It's a great way to support my writing as well as my personal and academic life.

Love, Bella 👑

Post a Comment

Cookie Consent
We serve cookies on this site to analyze traffic, remember your preferences, and optimize your experience.
Oops!
It seems there is something wrong with your internet connection. Please connect to the internet and start browsing again.
AdBlock Detected!
We have detected that you are using adblocking plugin in your browser.
The revenue we earn by the advertisements is used to manage this website, we request you to whitelist our website in your adblocking plugin.
Site is Blocked
Sorry! This site is not available in your country.
{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\deff0\nouicompat\deflang1033{\fonttbl{\f0\fnil\fcharset0 Calibri;}} {\*\generator Riched20 10.0.22621}\viewkind4\uc1 \pard\sa200\sl276\slmult1\f0\fs22\lang9 \par }