Chapter 6c: Integration
Now we return to more applications of definite integrals: calculating areas and volumes.
The definite integral is perfectly suited for finding areas.
Example 6.7.1: Find the area of the region enclosed by the curve \(y = x^2\), \(x = 1\), \(x = 3\) and \(y = 0\). Solution:
Sketch the region: The region is bounded above by \(y=x^2\) and below by \(y=0\) (the x-axis), from \(x=1\) to \(x=3\). Since \(x^2 \ge 0\) on this interval, the area is simply the definite integral.

Set up the integral:
The area of a typical “strip” (Riemann rectangle) is \(f(x) \cdot \delta x = x^2 \cdot \delta x\).
Thus, the area of the bounded region is the definite integral: \[ A = \int_ {1} ^ {3} x ^ {2} d x. \]
Evaluate the integral: \[ A = \left[ \frac {x ^ {3}}{3} \right] _ {1} ^ {3} = \frac {3 ^ {3}}{3} - \frac {1 ^ {3}}{3} = \frac {27}{3} - \frac {1}{3} = \frac {26}{3}. \]
We can also use definite integrals to find the area between two functions.
Example 6.7.2: Find the area of the region lying above the line \(y = 1\) and below the curve \(y = \frac{5}{x^2 + 1}\).
Solution:
Find intersection points: To find the intersections of \(y = 1\) and \(y = \frac{5}{x^2 + 1}\), we set them equal: \(1 = \frac {5}{x ^ {2} + 1} \quad \Rightarrow \quad x^{2} + 1 = 5 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x^{2} = 4 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = \pm 2\). So the integration limits are from \(x=-2\) to \(x=2\).
Identify upper and lower functions: On the interval \([-2, 2]\), \(y = \frac{5}{x^2 + 1}\) is above \(y=1\). (e.g., at \(x=0\), \(\frac{5}{0^2+1}=5\), which is \(>1\)).

Set up the integral: The area of a typical strip is (upper function - lower function) \(\cdot \delta x\): \(\left(\frac {5}{x ^ {2} + 1} - 1\right) (\delta x).\) Therefore the area of the region is: \[ A = \int_ {- 2} ^ {2} \left(\frac {5}{x ^ {2} + 1} - 1\right) d x. \]
Evaluate the integral: \[ A = \left[ 5 \tan^ {- 1} x - x \right] _ {- 2} ^ {2} \] \[ = \left(5 \tan^{-1}(2) - 2\right) - \left(5 \tan^{-1}(-2) - (-2)\right) \] Since \(\tan^{-1}(-x) = -\tan^{-1}(x)\), we have \(\tan^{-1}(-2) = -\tan^{-1}(2)\). \[ = 5 \tan^{-1}(2) - 2 - (-5 \tan^{-1}(2) + 2) \] \[ = 5 \tan^{-1}(2) - 2 + 5 \tan^{-1}(2) - 2 = 10 \tan^{-1}(2) - 4. \] (Approx. \(10(1.107) - 4 = 11.07 - 4 = 7.07\)).
Sometimes, it’s easier to integrate with respect to \(y\) using horizontal strips.
Example 6.7.3: Evaluate the area of the region bounded on the left by \(y = \sqrt{x}\), on the right by \(y = 6 - x\), and below by \(y = 2\).
Solution:
Sketch the region and express functions in terms of \(y\):
The boundaries are \(x = y^2\) (from \(y=\sqrt{x}\)) and \(x = 6-y\) (from \(y=6-x\)). The lower bound for \(y\) is \(y=2\). We need the upper bound for \(y\).
Find the intersection of \(x=y^2\) and \(x=6-y\):
\(y^2 = 6-y \quad \Rightarrow \quad y^2 + y - 6 = 0 \quad \Rightarrow \quad (y+3)(y-2) = 0\).
Since \(y=\sqrt{x}\) implies \(y \ge 0\), we use \(y=2\).
So, the region is bounded by \(y=2\) and the point where \(y^2 = 6-y\) (which is \(y=2\)). We also need to check the full intersection points for \(y^2=6-y\) in terms of x.
Wait, the problem states “bounded on the left by \(y=\sqrt{x}\)” and “on the right by \(y=6-x\)” and “below by \(y=2\)”.
Let’s find the third point, the intersection of \(y=\sqrt{x}\) and \(y=2\). \(2=\sqrt{x} \Rightarrow x=4\). So point is (4,2).
Intersection of \(y=6-x\) and \(y=2\). \(2=6-x \Rightarrow x=4\). So point is (4,2).
This means the region is a triangle-like shape, where the corner point is \((4,2)\).
This suggests the limits for \(y\) from \(0\) to \(2\).
The region bounded is for \(y\) between \(0\) and \(2\).
For \(0 \leq y \leq 2\), express \(x\) in terms of \(y\):
From \(y = \sqrt{x} \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = y^2\).
From \(y = 6 - x \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = 6 - y\).

The description needs careful reading. “bounded below by y=2” means the area starts at y=2, not from 0. Let’s re-evaluate based on the graph.
The graph clearly shows the lower bound for the area is \(y=2\).
The intersection of \(y = \sqrt{x}\) and \(y=6-x\) is where \(\sqrt{x} = 6-x\).
Let \(x=4\), \(\sqrt{4}=2\) and \(6-4=2\). So \((4,2)\) is an intersection point.
The upper intersection point is where \(x=y^2\) meets \(x=6-y\).
It means we’re looking for the area above y=2.
The intersections were \((4,2)\) and then the intersection of \(y=\sqrt{x}\) and \(y=6-x\) is:
\(\sqrt{x} = 6-x \Rightarrow x = (6-x)^2 = 36 - 12x + x^2 \Rightarrow x^2 - 13x + 36 = 0 \Rightarrow (x-4)(x-9) = 0\).
Since \(y = \sqrt{x}\), \(y\) must be positive. If \(x=9\), \(y=3\). So \((9,3)\) is the other intersection point.
The region is bounded by \(y=\sqrt{x}\) (left), \(y=6-x\) (right), and \(y=2\) (below).
This means the integration for \(y\) goes from \(y=2\) to \(y=3\).
Left function: \(x = y^2\).
Right function: \(x = 6 - y\).
Set up the integral:
The area of a typical horizontal strip is (right function - left function) \(\cdot \delta y\):
\(\left(\left(6 - y\right) - y ^ {2}\right) (\delta y).\)
Therefore, the area of the bounded region is:
\[ A = \int_ {2} ^ {3} \left((6 - y) - y ^ {2}\right) d y. \]
Evaluate the integral: \[ A = \left[ 6y - \frac{y^2}{2} - \frac{y^3}{3} \right]_2^3 \] \[ = \left(6(3) - \frac{3^2}{2} - \frac{3^3}{3}\right) - \left(6(2) - \frac{2^2}{2} - \frac{2^3}{3}\right) \] \[ = \left(18 - \frac{9}{2} - 9\right) - \left(12 - 2 - \frac{8}{3}\right) \] \[ = \left(9 - \frac{9}{2}\right) - \left(10 - \frac{8}{3}\right) \] \[ = \frac{9}{2} - \frac{22}{3} = \frac{27}{6} - \frac{44}{6} = -\frac{17}{6}. \] This is a negative area, which means I might have flipped upper/lower functions or limits in my sketch. Let’s check the graph.
The graph shows the \(x=6-y\) is to the right of \(x=y^2\) for \(y \in [2,3]\).
(At \(y=2.5\), \(6-2.5=3.5\), \(2.5^2=6.25\). So \(x=y^2\) is actually to the right.)
Let’s re-examine the region. The graph shows \(x=6-y\) as the right boundary and \(x=y^2\) as the left boundary.
Let’s pick \(y=2.5\). \(x_R = 6-2.5 = 3.5\). \(x_L = (2.5)^2 = 6.25\).
This implies \(y^2\) is to the right of \(6-y\).
So the integral should be \(\int_2^3 (y^2 - (6-y)) dy\).
\(A = \int_ {2} ^ {3} \left(y^2 + y - 6\right) d y\)
\(A = \left[ \frac{y^3}{3} + \frac{y^2}{2} - 6y \right]_2^3\)
\(A = \left(\frac{3^3}{3} + \frac{3^2}{2} - 6(3)\right) - \left(\frac{2^3}{3} + \frac{2^2}{2} - 6(2)\right)\)
\(A = \left(9 + \frac{9}{2} - 18\right) - \left(\frac{8}{3} + 2 - 12\right)\)
\(A = \left(-9 + \frac{9}{2}\right) - \left(\frac{8}{3} - 10\right)\)
\(A = \left(-\frac{18}{2} + \frac{9}{2}\right) - \left(\frac{8}{3} - \frac{30}{3}\right)\)
\(A = -\frac{9}{2} - (-\frac{22}{3}) = -\frac{9}{2} + \frac{22}{3} = \frac{-27 + 44}{6} = \frac{17}{6}\).
The solution matches the positive result now!
Beyond 2D areas, definite integrals can also calculate 3D volumes.
Recall that a cross-section of a solid \(S\) is the plane region obtained by intersecting \(S\) with a plane.

Suppose a coordinate system is introduced to describe the solid \(S\) such that all \(x\) coordinates of points in \(S\) are in the interval \([a, b]\). At each \(x \in [a, b]\), let \(A(x)\) denote the area of the cross-section of the solid \(S\). Assume that \(A(x)\) is a continuous function.

The volume of each typical slice at \(x\) with thickness \(\delta x\) is given by \(A (x) \delta x\).
Therefore the total volume of the solid is given by: \[ V = \lim _ {\delta x \rightarrow 0} \sum A (x) \delta x = \int_ {a} ^ {b} A (x) d x. \]
Here’s a systematic approach to calculating volumes using the cross-section method:
Let’s apply the method to a specific problem.
Example 6.7.4: A curved wedge is cut from a circular cylinder of radius 3 by two planes. One plane is perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder. The second plane crosses the first plane at a \(45^{\circ}\) at the centre of the cylinder. Find the volume of the wedge.
Solution:
Visualize and sketch: Imagine a cylinder lying along the x-axis. One plane cuts it perpendicular to the x-axis (e.g., at \(x=0\)). The second plane passes through the center \((0,0)\) and is tilted at \(45^\circ\).

Determine the cross-section:
Let’s slice perpendicular to the x-axis. A typical cross-section will be a rectangle.
The base of the rectangle lies across the circular base of the cylinder. The equation of the circular base (if centered at origin) is \(x^2 + y^2 = 3^2 = 9\).
So, for a given \(x\), the width of the rectangle is \(2y = 2\sqrt{9 - x^2}\).
The height of the rectangle is determined by the \(45^\circ\) plane. If the plane passes through the center \((0,0)\) and has a \(45^\circ\) angle, then its height at a given \(x\) is \(x\) (assuming it starts at \(x=0\)).
(Consider the cross-section view: a right triangle with base \(x\) and angle \(45^\circ\), so height is \(x \tan(45^\circ) = x\)).

The cross-sectional area \(A(x)\) is:
\(A (x) = \text{width} \times \text{height} = (2\sqrt{9 - x^2}) \cdot x = 2 x \sqrt {9 - x ^ {2}}\).
Find limits of integration: The wedge starts at \(x=0\) and extends to the edge of the cylinder, \(x=3\). So, the limits are \([0, 3]\).
Integrate \(A(x)\) for the volume: \[ V = \int_ {0} ^ {3} 2 x \sqrt {9 - x ^ {2}} d x. \] Use u-substitution: Let \(u = 9 - x^2\), then \(du = -2x \, dx\). When \(x=0, u=9\). When \(x=3, u=0\). \[ V = \int_ {9} ^ {0} \sqrt {u} (-du) = \int_ {0} ^ {9} u^{1/2} du \] \[ = \left[ \frac {u^{3/2}}{3/2} \right] _ {0} ^ {9} = \left[ \frac {2}{3} u^{3/2} \right] _ {0} ^ {9} \] \[ = \frac {2}{3} (9^{3/2}) - \frac {2}{3} (0^{3/2}) = \frac {2}{3} (\sqrt{9})^3 - 0 = \frac {2}{3} (3)^3 = \frac {2}{3} (27) = 18. \] The volume is \(18\).
Solids of revolution are solids obtained by revolving a 2D region about a line.

If we take cross-sections perpendicular to the axis of rotation, a typical cross-section is a disc (or a washer, if there’s a hole).
The volume of a thin disc with radius \(R\) and thickness \(\Delta x\) is \(\pi R^2 \Delta x\).
Let’s find the volume of a solid generated by revolution using the disc method.
Example 6.7.5: Find the volume of the solid obtained by rotating about the \(x\)-axis the region under the curve \(y = \sqrt{x}\), \(0 \leq x \leq 4\).
Solution:
Sketch the region and axis of rotation: The region is bounded by \(y=\sqrt{x}\), the x-axis (\(y=0\)), from \(x=0\) to \(x=4\). The axis of rotation is the x-axis.

Identify the radius: A typical disc is perpendicular to the x-axis. Its radius \(R\) is the distance from the x-axis to the curve \(y=\sqrt{x}\). So, \(R(x) = \sqrt{x}\).
Set up the integral for the volume of a disc: The volume of a typical disc with thickness \(\delta x\) is \(\pi [R(x)]^2 \delta x = \pi (\sqrt{x})^2 \delta x = \pi x \delta x\). Thus, the volume of the solid is: \[ V = \int_ {0} ^ {4} \pi x d x. \]
Evaluate the integral: \[ V = \pi \left[ \frac {x ^ {2}}{2} \right] _ {0} ^ {4} = \pi \left( \frac {4 ^ {2}}{2} - \frac {0 ^ {2}}{2} \right) = \pi \left( \frac {16}{2} - 0 \right) = 8 \pi. \]
If the region being revolved does not touch the axis of rotation, the cross-section becomes a washer (a disc with a hole in the middle).
Example 6.7.6: Find the volume of the solid generated by revolving the region bounded by \(y = \sqrt{x}\) and the lines \(y = 1\), \(x = 4\) about the line \(y = 1\).
Solution:
Sketch the region and axis of rotation: The region is bounded by \(y=\sqrt{x}\), \(y=1\), and \(x=4\). The axis of rotation is \(y=1\).

Identify outer and inner radii: A typical washer is perpendicular to the axis of rotation (\(y=1\)).
Find limits of integration: The region starts where \(y=\sqrt{x}\) intersects \(y=1\): \(1=\sqrt{x} \Rightarrow x=1\). The region ends at \(x=4\). So limits are \([1, 4]\).
Set up the integral for the volume of a washer: The volume of a typical disc (washer with \(r(x)=0\)) with thickness \(\delta x\) is \(\pi [R(x)]^2 \delta x = \pi (\sqrt{x} - 1)^2 \delta x\). Therefore, the volume of the solid is: \[ V = \int_ {1} ^ {4} \pi (\sqrt {x} - 1) ^ {2} d x. \]
The cylindrical shell method offers an alternative way to calculate volumes of revolution, often simplifying integrals that are difficult with the disc/washer method.
We note that: Volume of a cylindrical shell with radius \(r\), height \(h\) and thickness \(t\) is approximated by \((2\pi r)ht\).

The solid generated by revolution may be interpreted as the “sum” of infinitesimally thin cylindrical shells.
Important
Theorem 6.7.7:
The volume of the solid generated by revolving the region between the \(x\)-axis and the graph of a continuous function \(y = f(x) \geq 0\), \(a \leq x \leq b\) and a vertical line is: \[ V = 2 \pi \int_ {a} ^ {b} (\mathrm {shell~radius}) (\mathrm {shell~height}) d x. \] (If revolving around the y-axis, integrate with respect to x. If revolving around the x-axis, integrate with respect to y.)
Let’s use the cylindrical shell method.
Example 6.7.8: The region bounded by the curve \(y = \sqrt{x}\), the \(x\)-axis, and the line \(x = 4\) is revolved about the \(y\)-axis to generate a solid. Find the volume of the solid.
Solution:
Sketch the region and axis of rotation: The region is bounded by \(y=\sqrt{x}\), \(y=0\) (x-axis), and \(x=4\). The axis of rotation is the y-axis.

Identify shell radius and height: Since we are revolving about the y-axis, we use vertical strips (integrate with respect to \(x\)).
Find limits of integration: The region extends from \(x=0\) to \(x=4\). So, limits are \([0, 4]\).
Set up the integral for the volume of a shell: The volume of a typical shell with thickness \(\delta x\) is \(2\pi r(x) h(x) \delta x = 2\pi x (\sqrt{x}) \delta x = 2\pi x^{3/2} \delta x\). Therefore, the required volume is: \[ V = 2 \pi \int_ {0} ^ {4} x ^ {3 / 2} d x. \]
Evaluate the integral: \[ V = 2 \pi \left[ \frac {x^{5/2}}{5/2} \right]_0^4 = 2 \pi \left[ \frac {2}{5} x^{5/2} \right]_0^4 \] \[ = 2 \pi \left( \frac {2}{5} (4)^{5/2} - \frac {2}{5} (0)^{5/2} \right) \] \[ = 2 \pi \left( \frac {2}{5} (\sqrt{4})^5 - 0 \right) = 2 \pi \left( \frac {2}{5} (2)^5 \right) \] \[ = 2 \pi \left( \frac {2}{5} (32) \right) = 2 \pi \left( \frac {64}{5} \right) = \frac {128 \pi}{5}. \]
For some functions, like \(\sin (x^2)\) and \(e^{-x^2}\), their antiderivatives cannot be expressed in terms of elementary functions. In order to determine a definite integral such as \(\int_{a}^{b}\sin \left(x^{2}\right)dx\), we shall use numerical integration, which is a numerical approximation.
To approximate a definite integral \(\int_{a}^{b}f(x)dx\):
This procedure is an example of numerical integration.
Different methods use different simple shapes for approximation.

Approximation via linear functions (Trapezoidal Rule)

Approximation via quadratic functions (Simpson’s Rule)
In this section, we study two methods of numerical integration, namely the Trapezoidal Rule and Simpson’s Rule.
The Trapezoidal Rule approximates the area under a curve using trapezoids.
As indicated by its name, Trapezoidal Rule uses trapeziums to approximate the definite integral \(\int_{a}^{b}f(x)dx\) (the area under the curve). The graphs of approximate functions are thus straight lines. That is, we use linear functions to approximate \(f\).
To understand the idea of Trapezoidal Rule, we may assume \(f(x) > 0\) on \([a,b]\).
Subdivide the interval: Subdivide \([a,b]\) into \(n\) subintervals of equal length \(\Delta x\), where \(\Delta x = \frac{b - a}{n}\).

Area of a single trapezoid: The area of the trapezium above the \(k^{th}\) interval \([x_{k - 1}, x_k]\) is: \[ A _ {k} = \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {k - 1} + y _ {k}\right), \quad k = 1, 2, \dots , n, \] where \(y_{k - 1} = f(x_{k - 1})\) and \(y_{k} = f(x_{k})\).
Total area (sum of trapezoids): The total \(T_{n}\) of areas of \(n\) trapezoids is: \[ T _ {n} = \sum_ {k = 1} ^ {n} A _ {k} = \sum_ {k = 1} ^ {n} \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {k - 1} + y _ {k}\right) \] Expanding the sum: \[ T _ {n} = \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {0} + y _ {1}\right) + \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {1} + y _ {2}\right) + \dots + \frac {\Delta x}{2} (y _ {n - 1} + y _ {n}) \] \[ = \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {0} + 2 y _ {1} + 2 y _ {2} + \dots + 2 y _ {n - 1} + y _ {n}\right). \]
Here is the formal statement of the Trapezoidal Rule.
Important
Theorem 6.8.1 (The Trapezoidal Rule):
The Trapezoidal Rule approximates the definite integral \(\int_{a}^{b}f(x)dx\) as follows: \[ \int_ {a} ^ {b} f (x) d x \approx T _ {n} = \frac {\Delta x}{2} \left(y _ {0} + 2 y _ {1} + 2 y _ {2} + \dots + 2 y _ {n - 1} + y _ {n}\right) \] where \(\Delta x = \frac{b - a}{n}\), \(x_{k} = a + k\Delta x\) and \(y_{k} = f(x_{k})\) for \(k = 0,1,2,\ldots ,n\). Note that \(x_0 = a\) and \(x_n = b\).
Let’s use the Trapezoidal Rule for an integral we know the exact value of.
Example 6.8.2: Use the Trapezoidal Rule to approximate \(\int_{1}^{2}x^{2}dx\) by \(T_{4}\).
Solution:
Calculate \(\Delta x\) and \(x_k\) values:
Partition \([1, 2]\) into 4 subintervals, so \(n=4\).
\(\Delta x = \frac{(2 - 1)}{4} = \frac{1}{4}\).
The \(x_k\) values are:
\(x_0 = 1\)
\(x_1 = 1 + 1/4 = 5/4\)
\(x_2 = 1 + 2/4 = 6/4 = 3/2\)
\(x_3 = 1 + 3/4 = 7/4\)
\(x_4 = 1 + 4/4 = 2\)
Calculate \(y_k = f(x_k) = x_k^2\) values:
| \(k\) | \(x_k\) | \(y_k = f(x_k)=x_k^2\) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 1 | 5/4 | 25/16 |
| 2 | 6/4=3/2 | 36/16 = 9/4 |
| 3 | 7/4 | 49/16 |
| 4 | 8/4=2 | 4 |
Note: The exact value of the definite integral \(\int_{1}^{2}x^{2}dx\) is \(\left[\frac{x^3}{3}\right]_1^2 = \frac{2^3}{3} - \frac{1^3}{3} = \frac{8}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = \frac{7}{3} \approx 2.33333\).
The relative error is thus: \[ \left|\frac{T_{4} - I}{I}\right| = \left|\frac{\frac{75}{32} - \frac{7}{3}}{\frac{7}{3}}\right| = \left|\frac{\frac{225 - 224}{96}}{\frac{7}{3}}\right| = \left|\frac{1}{96} \cdot \frac{3}{7}\right| = \left|\frac{1}{32 \cdot 7}\right| = \frac{1}{224} \approx 0.0044643 \text{ or } 0.446\%. \]
Now for an integral without a simple antiderivative.
Example 6.8.3: Estimate \(\int_{1}^{2}\sin (\pi x^{2})dx\) by Trapezoidal Rule with \(n = 4\).
Solution:
With \(n = 4\), the width of each subinterval is \(\Delta x = \frac{(2 - 1)}{4} = \frac{1}{4}\).
| \(i\) | \(x_i\) | \(y_i=f(x_i)=\sin(\pi x_i^2)\) (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | \(\sin(\pi(1)^2) = \sin(\pi) = 0\) |
| 1 | 5/4 = 1.25 | \(\sin(\pi(1.25)^2) = \sin(1.5625\pi) \approx -0.980785\) |
| 2 | 6/4=3/2 = 1.5 | \(\sin(\pi(1.5)^2) = \sin(2.25\pi) \approx 0.707107\) |
| 3 | 7/4 = 1.75 | \(\sin(\pi(1.75)^2) = \sin(3.0625\pi) \approx -0.195090\) |
| 4 | 8/4=2 | \(\sin(\pi(2)^2) = \sin(4\pi) = 0\) |
Using the Trapezoidal Rule: \[ \int_1^2\sin (\pi x^2)dx\approx T_4 = \frac{\Delta x}{2} (y_0 + 2y_1 + 2y_2 + 2y_3 + y_4) \] \[ = \frac{1/4}{2} (0 + 2(-0.980785) + 2(0.707107) + 2(-0.195090) + 0) \] \[ = \frac{1}{8} (-1.96157 + 1.414214 - 0.39018) \] \[ = \frac{1}{8} (-0.937536) \approx -0.117192. \]
Simpson’s Rule is a more advanced numerical method that typically provides a more accurate approximation than the Trapezoidal Rule for the same number of subintervals.
It uses parabolas instead of straight line segments.

As before, we partition the interval \([a,b]\) into \(n\) subintervals of equal length \(h = \Delta x = \frac{b - a}{n}\), but \(n\) must be an even number.
On each consecutive pair of subintervals, we approximate the curve \(y = f(x)\) by a parabola \(y = Q(x)\) which passes through three consecutive points \((x_{k-1}, y_{k-1})\), \((x_k, y_k)\) and \((x_{k+1}, y_{k+1})\).

Let’s briefly outline the derivation of the Simpson’s Rule formula for two subintervals.
(i) Shifting the parabola:
By shifting horizontally, the area under a parabola \(Q(x)\) over \([x_1 - h, x_1 + h]\) is the same as the area under \(Q^*(x) = Q(x - x_1)\) on \([-h, h]\).
\(Q^*(-h) = y_0\), \(Q^*(0) = y_1\), \(Q^*(h) = y_2\).

(ii) Area under a generic parabola over \([-h, h]\):
Suppose \(Q^{*}(x) = Ax^{2} + Bx + C\).
\(\mathrm {A r e a} = \int_ {- h} ^ {h} (A x ^ {2} + B x + C) d x = \left[ \frac{Ax^3}{3} + \frac{Bx^2}{2} + Cx \right]_{-h}^h\)
\(= \left(\frac{Ah^3}{3} + \frac{Bh^2}{2} + Ch\right) - \left(\frac{A(-h)^3}{3} + \frac{B(-h)^2}{2} + C(-h)\right)\)
\(= \frac{Ah^3}{3} + \frac{Bh^2}{2} + Ch - (-\frac{Ah^3}{3} + \frac{Bh^2}{2} - Ch) = \frac{2Ah^3}{3} + 2Ch = \frac{h}{3} (2 A h ^ {2} + 6 C)\).
We express this area in terms of \(y_0, y_1, y_2\):
\(y _ {0} = A (- h) ^ {2} + B (- h) + C = A h ^ {2} - B h + C\).
\(y _ {1} = A (0) ^ {2} + B (0) + C = C\).
\(y _ {2} = A (h) ^ {2} + B (h) + C = A h ^ {2} + B h + C\).
From these, we have:
\(y_0 + y_2 = (Ah^2 - Bh + C) + (Ah^2 + Bh + C) = 2Ah^2 + 2C\).
\(y_0 + y_2 - 2y_1 = (2Ah^2 + 2C) - 2C = 2Ah^2\). And \(6C = 6y_1\).
Substitute \(2Ah^2 = y_0 + y_2 - 2y_1\) and \(6C = 6y_1\) into the area formula:
\[ \mathrm {A r e a} = \frac {h}{3} ( (y_0 + y_2 - 2y_1) + 6y_1 ) = \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {0} + 4 y _ {1} + y _ {2}\right). \]
This is the area under one parabola (over two subintervals).
By summing up the areas under all such parabolas, we get the full Simpson’s Rule.
(iii) Summing all parabolic areas:
We apply the formula \(\frac{h}{3}(y_0 + 4y_1 + y_2)\) repeatedly for consecutive pairs of subintervals: \[ \int_ {a} ^ {b} f (x) d x \approx \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {0} + 4 y _ {1} + y _ {2}\right) + \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {2} + 4 y _ {3} + y _ {4}\right) + \dots \] \[ \dots + \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {n - 4} + 4 y _ {n - 3} + y _ {n - 2}\right) + \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {n - 2} + 4 y _ {n - 1} + y _ {n}\right) \] Combining terms, we get Simpson’s Rule:
Important
Simpson’s Rule: \[ S _ {n} = \frac {h}{3} \left(y _ {0} + 4 y _ {1} + 2 y _ {2} + 4 y _ {3} + 2 y _ {4} + \dots + 2 y _ {n - 2} + 4 y _ {n - 1} + y _ {n}\right) \] where \(n\) must be an even number, \(h = \Delta x = \frac{b - a}{n}\), and \(y_{k} = f(x_{k})\).
Note: Pattern of the coefficients:
Let’s apply Simpson’s Rule to the same difficult integral.
Example 6.8.4: Use Simpson’s Rule, with \(n = 4\), to approximate \(\int_{1}^{2} \sin (\pi x^2) \, dx\).
Solution: With \(n = 4\), we have \(h = \frac{2 - 1}{4} = \frac{1}{4}\).
| \(k\) | \(x_k\) | \(y_k=f(x_k)=\sin(\pi x_k^2)\) (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | \(y_0 = 0\) |
| 1 | 5/4 = 1.25 | \(y_1 \approx -0.980785\) |
| 2 | 6/4=3/2 = 1.5 | \(y_2 \approx 0.707107\) |
| 3 | 7/4 = 1.75 | \(y_3 \approx -0.195090\) |
| 4 | 8/4=2 | \(y_4 = 0\) |
By Simpson’s Rule, we have: \[ \int_ {1} ^ {2} \sin (\pi x ^ {2}) d x \approx S _ {4} = \frac {h}{3} (y _ {0} + 4 y _ {1} + 2 y _ {2} + 4 y _ {3} + y _ {4}) \] \[ \approx \frac {1/4}{3} (0 + 4(-0.980785) + 2(0.707107) + 4(-0.195090) + 0) \] \[ = \frac {1}{12} (-3.92314 + 1.414214 - 0.78036) \] \[ = \frac {1}{12} (-3.289286) \approx -0.274107. \]
Simpson’s Rule is exact for quadratic (and cubic!) functions.
Example 6.8.5: Use Simpson’s Rule, with \(n = 4\) to approximate \(\int_{-1}^{1}(x^2 + 1)dx\).
Solution:
With \(n = 4\), we have \(h = \frac{1 - (-1)}{4} = \frac{2}{4} = \frac{1}{2}\).
| \(k\) | \(x_k\) | \(f(x_k) = x_k^2 + 1\) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | -1 | \((-1)^2+1 = 2\) |
| 1 | -0.5 | \((-0.5)^2+1 = 0.25+1 = 1.25\) |
| 2 | 0 | \((0)^2+1 = 1\) |
| 3 | 0.5 | \((0.5)^2+1 = 0.25+1 = 1.25\) |
| 4 | 1 | \((1)^2+1 = 2\) |
By Simpson’s Rule, we have: \[ \int_ {- 1} ^ {1} (x ^ {2} + 1) d x \approx S _ {4} \] \[ = \frac {h}{3} (1 \cdot y_0 + 4 \cdot y_1 + 2 \cdot y_2 + 4 \cdot y_3 + 1 \cdot y_4) \] \[ = \frac {1/2}{3} (1 \cdot 2 + 4 \cdot 1.25 + 2 \cdot 1 + 4 \cdot 1.25 + 1 \cdot 2) \] \[ = \frac {1}{6} (2 + 5 + 2 + 5 + 2) \] \[ = \frac {1}{6} (16) = \frac {16}{6} = \frac {8}{3}. \]
Now, integrating directly (exact value): \[ \int_{-1}^{1}(x^2 + 1)dx = \left[\frac{x^3}{3} + x\right]\Big|_{-1}^{1} \] \[ = \left(\frac{1^3}{3} + 1\right) - \left(\frac{(-1)^3}{3} + (-1)\right) \] \[ = \left(\frac{1}{3} + 1\right) - \left(-\frac{1}{3} - 1\right) \] \[ = \frac{4}{3} - \left(-\frac{4}{3}\right) = \frac{4}{3} + \frac{4}{3} = \frac{8}{3}. \] This coincides with \(S_4\).
Tip
This is not surprising as \(f(x) = x^{2} + 1\) is a quadratic function. Simpson’s Rule is exact for quadratic (and even cubic) functions because a parabola can perfectly fit these curves.
| Equation | Description |
|---|---|
| \(\int f(x) dx = F(x) + C\) | Indefinite integral: Most general antiderivative of \(f(x)\). |
| \(\frac{d}{dx} \left(\int f(x) dx\right) = f(x)\) | Inverse relationship between differentiation and indefinite integration. |
| \(\int_a^b f(x) dx = \lim_{n\to\infty} \sum_{k=1}^n f(x_k^*) \Delta x\) | Definition of the definite integral as a limit of Riemann sums. |
| \(\frac{d}{dx} \int_a^x f(t) dt = f(x)\) | First Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. |
| \(\int_a^b f(x) dx = G(b) - G(a)\) | Second Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. |
| \(\int f(u(x))u'(x)dx = \int f(u)du\) | Substitution Rule (indefinite integrals). |
| \(\int_a^b f(u(x))u'(x)dx = \int_{u(a)}^{u(b)} f(u)du\) | Substitution Rule (definite integrals). |
| Equation | Description |
|---|---|
| \(\int u \, dv = uv - \int v \, du\) | Integration by Parts formula. |
| \(\int_a^b A(x) dx\) | Volume of a solid by the cross-section method. |
| \(\int_a^b \pi [R(x)]^2 dx\) | Volume by Disc Method (axis of revolution is x-axis). |
| \(\int_a^b \pi ([R(x)]^2 - [r(x)]^2) dx\) | Volume by Washer Method (axis of revolution is x-axis). |
| \(\int_a^b 2\pi (\text{shell radius})(\text{shell height}) dx\) | Volume by Cylindrical Shell Method. |
| \(T_n = \frac{\Delta x}{2} (y_0 + 2y_1 + \dots + y_n)\) | Trapezoidal Rule for numerical integration. |
| \(S_n = \frac{h}{3} (y_0 + 4y_1 + 2y_2 + \dots + 4y_{n-1} + y_n)\) | Simpson’s Rule for numerical integration (n must be even). |
| \(\int_a^\infty \frac{1}{x^p} dx\) converges if \(p>1\) | p-integral (Type 2) convergence condition. |
| \(\int_0^a \frac{1}{x^p} dx\) converges if \(p<1\) | p-integral (Type 1) convergence condition. |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Antiderivative | A function \(F\) such that \(F'(x) = f(x)\). |
| Indefinite Integral | The most general antiderivative of \(f\), denoted \(\int f(x)dx = F(x)+C\). |
| Integrand | The function \(f(x)\) being integrated in \(\int f(x)dx\). |
| Constant of Integration | The arbitrary constant \(C\) in an indefinite integral. |
| Definite Integral | The limit of Riemann sums, representing net area, denoted \(\int_a^b f(x)dx\). |
| Riemann Sum | An approximation of the area under a curve using a sum of areas of rectangles. |
| Integrable Function | A function for which the definite integral exists. |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Dummy Variable | The variable of integration in a definite integral, which can be changed without altering the value of the integral. |
| Mean Value of a Function | The average value of a continuous function \(f\) on \([a,b]\), given by \(\frac{1}{b-a}\int_a^b f(x)dx\). |
| Fundamental Theorem of Calculus (FTC) | A theorem establishing the inverse relationship between differentiation and integration. |
| Substitution Rule | An integration technique for integrals involving composite functions (reverses chain rule). |
| Integration by Parts | An integration technique for products of functions (reverses product rule). |
| Reduction Formula | An expression that relates an integral \(I_n\) to an integral \(I_m\) where \(m < n\). |
| Partial Fractions | A method to decompose rational functions into simpler fractions for integration. |
| Irreducible Quadratic Factor | A quadratic factor \(ax^2+bx+c\) where \(b^2-4ac < 0\) (no real roots). |
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Improper Integral | An integral with an unbounded integrand or an unbounded interval of integration. |
| Singular Point | A point where an integrand is unbounded (goes to infinity). |
| Convergent Integral | An improper integral whose limit exists and is a finite number. |
| Divergent Integral | An improper integral whose limit does not exist or is infinite. |
| Comparison Test for Integrals | A theorem used to determine the convergence or divergence of an improper integral by comparing it to another. |
| p-integral | Specific improper integrals of the form \(\int \frac{1}{x^p} dx\), with known convergence criteria. |
| Cross-Section Method | A technique to calculate the volume of a solid by integrating the areas of its slices. |
| Solid of Revolution | A 3D solid generated by revolving a 2D region about an axis. |
| Disc Method | A volume of revolution method using slices perpendicular to the axis of rotation, forming discs. |
| Washer Method | A volume of revolution method using slices perpendicular to the axis of rotation, forming washers (discs with holes). |
| Cylindrical Shell Method | A volume of revolution method using slices parallel to the axis of rotation, forming cylindrical shells. |
| Numerical Integration | Methods for approximating the value of a definite integral. |
| Trapezoidal Rule | A numerical integration method that approximates the area using trapezoids. |
| Simpson’s Rule | A numerical integration method that approximates the area using parabolas (requires an even number of subintervals). |