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

70218 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the simultaneous equations: 4X+6Y=4 and 7X+5Y=12.5


The sides of a right triangle are equal to A=3 cm, B=4 cm. The hypotenuse of a second triangle similar to the first one is 15 cm. Find sides of the second triangle.


Make a the subject of a + 3 = (2a + 7) / r


Ben wants to book tickets to see a concert. The price of the ticket is £65. He must also pay a booking fee, which is 15% of the ticket price. Ben has £75, does he have enough money to pay for the ticket and booking fee?


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