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. 

Answered by Angus L. Maths tutor

49643 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How to find surface area and volume of a cone


Draw y=x^2+5


Benjamin has a 0.7 chance of passing his driving test the first time and a 0.85 chance of passing the second time. What is the probability of his passing on either the first or second try?


There is a quarter circle with radius 8cm, what is the area of the quarter circle. The answer should be given in terms of pi, units are cm^2.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences