Question
Let f and g be continuous functions on [0, a] such that f(x) = f(a – x) and g(x) + g(a – x) = 4, then f(x) g(x) dx is equal to :
Options
Solution
Key Concepts and Formulas
- King Property of Definite Integrals: For a continuous function on , .
- Linearity of Definite Integrals: For continuous functions and and constants and , .
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Define the Integral and Apply the King Property Let the given integral be . We apply the King Property of definite integrals, , with . This substitution is crucial because the given properties of and are in terms of .
Step 2: Utilize the Given Function Properties We are given and . From the second property, we can express as . Now, substitute and into Equation 2. This step incorporates the specific characteristics of the functions into the integral, transforming it into a form that can be simplified.
Step 3: Simplify the Integrand and Separate the Integral Expand the integrand: Using the linearity property of definite integrals, we split the integral into two parts: The first integral can be simplified by taking the constant 4 outside: Notice that the second integral, , is precisely our original integral (from Equation 1). This is a common outcome when applying the King Property and allows us to form an equation for .
Step 4: Solve for Substitute back into the equation from Step 3: Now, we solve this algebraic equation for . Add to both sides: Divide by 2 to find the value of : This final step isolates and expresses it in terms of , matching one of the given options.
Common Mistakes & Tips
- Incorrect application of the King Property: Ensure you substitute for every in the integrand when applying .
- Missing one of the function properties: Both and are essential. A common error is to only use one of them.
- Algebraic errors: Be careful when rearranging the equation to solve for . Ensure you correctly add or subtract terms from both sides.
Summary
This problem is solved by strategically applying the King Property of definite integrals. By transforming the integrand using , we create an opportunity to use the given properties of and . Substituting and into the transformed integral leads to an equation where the original integral appears on both sides. Solving this equation algebraically yields the final result.
The final answer is \boxed{\text{2\int\limits_0^a \, f(x)dx}}.