(a) Δx=nb−a=1000−5=−201
Note: if we were to use the Riemann-sum definition of a definite integral, this is how we would justify the identity a∫bf(x)dx=−b∫af(x)dx.
(b) The heights of the rectangles are given by f(xi), where xi=a+iΔx=5−20i. Since f(x) only gives positive values, f(xi)>0, so the heights of the rectangles are positive.
(c) Our Riemann sum is the sum of the signed areas of individual rectangles. Each rectangle has a negative base (Δx) and a positive height (f(xi)). So, each term of our sum is negative. If we add up negative numbers, the sum is negative. So, the Riemann sum is negative.
(d) Since f(x) is always above the x-axis, 0∫5f(x)dx is positive.