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A LevelMaths: PureAQARevision Notes8. Integration8.2 Further Integration8.2.4 f'(x)/f(x)

f'(x)/f(x) (AQA A Level Maths: Pure)

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f'(x)/f(x)

Integrating fractions

  • The technique for integrating fractions depends on the type of fraction
  • For polynomial denominators see Integration using Partial Fractions
  • If fraction numerator d y over denominator d y end fraction space equals space 1 over x then y = ln |x| + c – see Integrating Other Functions
  • The type of fraction dealt with here is a specific case of Reverse Chain Rule

 

Notes diff_lnfx, AS & A Level Maths revision notes

How do I integrate fraction numerator straight f apostrophe left parenthesis x right parenthesis over denominator straight f left parenthesis x right parenthesis end fraction?

Notes top_diff_bot, A Level & AS Level Pure Maths Revision Notes

 

  • “The top is ‘almost’ the derivative of the bottom”
    • 'almost' here meaning 'a multiple of' (see below)
  • The integral will involve ln |f(x)| - ie ln of the bottom
    • Due to reverse chain rule

Notes f’_f_eg, AS & A Level Maths revision notes

Why ‘almost’? 

Notes f’_f_eg_adj_comp, AS & A Level Maths revision notes

  • There may be coefficients to ‘adjust’ and ‘compensate’ for

Examiner Tip

  • If you're unsure if the fraction is of the form f’(x)/f(x), differentiate the denominator.
  • Compare this to the numerator but you can ignore any coefficients.
  • If the coefficients do not match then ‘adjust’ and ‘compensate’ for them.

Worked example

Example soltn1, AS & A Level Maths revision notesExample soltn2, AS & A Level Maths revision notes

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    Paul

    Author: Paul

    Expertise: Maths

    Paul has taught mathematics for 20 years and has been an examiner for Edexcel for over a decade. GCSE, A level, pure, mechanics, statistics, discrete – if it’s in a Maths exam, Paul will know about it. Paul is a passionate fan of clear and colourful notes with fascinating diagrams – one of the many reasons he is excited to be a member of the SME team.