Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Integration
Integration is a fundamental concept in calculus that involves finding the integral of a function, which represents the area under the curve of that function. It is the reverse process of differentiation and can be used to calculate quantities such as total distance, area, and volume. Understanding integration techniques, such as substitution, is essential for solving integral problems.
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Substitution Method
The substitution method is a technique used in integration to simplify the process of finding an integral. By substituting a part of the integrand with a new variable (often denoted as 'u'), the integral can be transformed into a more manageable form. In the given problem, substituting 'u = ax + b' simplifies the integral, making it easier to evaluate.
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Rational Functions
Rational functions are ratios of polynomials, and they often appear in integration problems. The integral of a rational function can sometimes be simplified using algebraic manipulation or substitution. In this case, the function x/(ax + b) is a rational function, and understanding its structure is crucial for applying the appropriate integration techniques.
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