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View Full Version : How to Calculate the Arc Length of x^1/2


andryd9
Jun29-11, 09:03 PM
So sorry if this has been discussed elsewhere before. I know it may be trivial but for some reason I just can't get it. I simply can't seem to integrate the square root of (1 + 1/4x). This problem has been highlighted for a reason, but I'm missing the point. Any input is much appreciated.

micromass
Jun29-11, 09:40 PM
Hi andryd9! :smile:

What about a substitution

u=\sqrt{1+\frac{1}{4x}}

micromass
Jun29-11, 09:44 PM
Alternatively, you might want to calculate the arc length of x2. It should have the same value!

andryd9
Jun29-11, 10:01 PM
Thank you for the help:)