# Math Help - just a concept question

1. ## just a concept question

how do you tell if an integral is convergent or divergent?

we haven't learned this yet, but it's on my midterm on wednesday..

2. Originally Posted by buttonbear
how do you tell if an integral is convergent or divergent?

we haven't learned this yet, but it's on my midterm on wednesday..
An integral is convergent if when you solve it you get an actual numerical answer.

An integral is divergent if you get infinity/-infinity for an answer OR during your calculations, you cannot continue due to getting a non-real answer such as the log of a negative number.

Does that help?

3. yes, thanks a lot!

4. Originally Posted by buttonbear
how do you tell if an integral is convergent or divergent?

we haven't learned this yet, but it's on my midterm on wednesday..
Your school is in the habit of testing you on things that haven't been taught ....?

5. i wouldn't have said it if it was untrue

suny binghamton has a reputation for an absurd math department