Learn how to find the area under a curve using definite integrals

Finding the area underneath a curve is a common application of definite integrals. If you’re taking a course in integral Calculus you will almost certainly be asked to find the area underneath a curve, or between curves. Although it looks like determining such an area would be difficult, it’s actually a straight-forward process. The key is to be confident in evaluating definite integrals. If you’re not familiar with that process, or need to review, check out our video HERE. Any questions about this video drop us a message HERE.

Key Points

The area ‘under a curve’ is the area beneath the curve and between the x-axis and limits

The area is found by setting up and evaluating a definite integral

Practice definite integrals to be successful in finding the area underneath a curve

If the area is underneath the x-axis the definite integral will evaluate to a negative number. Ignore the negative when writing the area since an area cannot be negative

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