Learning Outcomes
- Describe the meaning of the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals
The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals states that a continuous function on a closed interval takes on its average value at the same point in that interval. The theorem guarantees that if is continuous, a point exists in an interval such that the value of the function at is equal to the average value of over We state this theorem mathematically with the help of the formula for the average value of a function that we presented at the end of the preceding section.
The Mean Value Theorem for Integrals
If is continuous over an interval then there is at least one point such that
This formula can also be stated as
Proof
Since is continuous on by the extreme value theorem (see Maxima and Minima), it assumes minimum and maximum values— and M, respectively—on Then, for all in we have Therefore, by the comparison theorem (see The Definite Integral), we have
Dividing by gives us
Since is a number between and M, and since is continuous and assumes the values and M over by the Intermediate Value Theorem (see Continuity), there is a number over such that
and the proof is complete.
Example: Finding the Average Value of a Function
Find the average value of the function over the interval and find such that equals the average value of the function over
Watch the following video to see the worked solution to Example: Finding the Average Value of a Function.
Try It
Find the average value of the function over the interval and find such that equals the average value of the function over
example: FINDING THE POINT WHERE A FUNCTION TAKES ON ITS AVERAGE VALUE
Given find such that equals the average value of over
Watch the following video to see the worked solution to Example: Finding the Point Where a Function Takes on its Average Value.
Try It
Given find such that equals the average value of over
Candela Citations
- 5.3 The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Authored by: Ryan Melton. License: CC BY: Attribution
- Calculus Volume 2. Authored by: Gilbert Strang, Edwin (Jed) Herman. Provided by: OpenStax. Located at: https://openstax.org/books/calculus-volume-2/pages/1-introduction. License: CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike. License Terms: Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/calculus-volume-2/pages/1-introduction