AP Calculus AB

Advanced Placement Calculus AB covering limits, derivatives, and integrals.

Advanced Topics

Fundamental Theorem of Calculus

Bridging Derivatives and Integrals

The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus connects differentiation and integration, showing they are inverse processes.

Two Main Parts

Part 1: If \( F(x) \) is an antiderivative of \( f(x) \), then the integral of \( f(x) \) from \( a \) to \( b \) is \( F(b) - F(a) \).

Part 2: If you define a function by an integral, its derivative is the original function inside the integral.

Why Is This Important?

This theorem makes evaluating definite integrals much faster—just find an antiderivative!

Applications

  • Calculating areas and accumulated quantities.
  • Relating instantaneous rates to total change.

Example in Action

If you know your velocity at every moment, integrating gives total distance. If you know total change, differentiating gives the rate.

Key Formula

\[\int_a^b f(x),dx = F(b) - F(a)\]

Examples

  • To find the area under \( f(x) = 3x^2 \) from 1 to 2, compute \( [x^3]_1^2 = 8 - 1 = 7 \).

  • If \( F(x) = \int_0^x \cos t,dt \), then \( F'(x) = \cos x \).

In a Nutshell

The Fundamental Theorem links finding areas and rates of change, making calculus powerful.

Key Terms

Antiderivative
A function whose derivative is the original function.
Definite Integral
An integral with upper and lower bounds, giving a specific value.
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