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Why is the maximum width of the partition essential for the Riemann sum to approach the definite integral?

The maximum width of the partition (often called the mesh) must tend to zero to ensure that the Riemann sum converges to the definite integral. Merely increasing the number of rectangles is insufficient because the widths of individual rectangles might not shrink uniformly, leaving gaps or overlaps that prevent the sum from accurately approximating the area under the curve.

Conditions

  • The function is continuous on the closed interval [a, b].
  • The partition is refined such that the maximum subinterval width tends to zero.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Define the Riemann sum as the sum of areas of rectangles with height f(ξᵢ) and width Δxᵢ.
  2. Identify the maximum width of the partition as the largest Δxᵢ.
  3. Explain that if the maximum width does not tend to zero, some rectangles remain wide, causing approximation errors.
  4. State that as the maximum width approaches zero, the sum of rectangle areas approaches the exact area under the curve.
  5. Conclude that the limit of the Riemann sum is the definite integral ∫f(x)dx\int f(x)dx.

Example

The script states: 'Refine the partition until its maximum width tends to zero. The sum approaches A=∫f(x)dxA=\int f(x)dx. The maximum width is essential: merely increasing the number of pieces is not enough.'

Common misconceptions

  • Believing that adding more rectangles always improves the approximation, regardless of their widths.
  • Confusing the number of subintervals with the fineness of the partition.
  • Thinking that the limit exists if the number of rectangles goes to infinity, even if some rectangles stay wide.

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