Why do I need to add the + C when finding an indefinite integral?

When you differenciate a function, the constant term turns to 0. So a lot of different functions like x2 + 7 and x2 - 3 will have the same derivative, this means that going from the derivative to the original function we can only get the non constant terms right and therefore we must add a + C. If the integral is definite then we don't need the + C because by evaluating the difference when plugging the limits, we get F(top limit) + C - (F(bottom limit) + C) = F(top) - F(bottom) where F(x) is the integrated function.

Answered by Maths tutor

5455 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can I derive an equation to find the sum of an arithmetic sequence?


Find the area enclosed between C, the curve y=6x-x^2, L, the line y=16-2x and the y axis.


What is the area under the graph of (x^2)*sin(x) between 0 and pi


How do you integrate ln(x) with respect to x?


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