Integrals of functions containing parameters. Issue 561 (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Corless, Robert M.; Jeffrey, David J.; Stoutemyer, David R.
• Is Part Of: Mathematical gazette. Volume 104:Issue 561(2020)
• Page Start: 412
• Page End: 426
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: Mathematics -- Periodicals; Mathématique; Mathematik; Mathematics; Periodicals; Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Zeitschrift; Online-Publikation; 510
• DOI: 10.1017/mag.2020.96
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-5572

Abstract

Abstract : Calculus students are taught that an indefinite integral is defined only up to an additive constant, and as a consequence generations of students have assiduously added '+ C ' to their calculus homework. Although ubiquitous, these constants rarely garner much attention, and typically loiter without intent around the ends of equations, feeling neglected. There is, however, useful work they can do, work which is particularly relevant in the contexts of integral tables and computer algebra systems. We begin, therefore, with a discussion of the context, before returning to coax the constants out of the shadows and assign them their tasks.