Solving Integral with u=tan(x/2): Hints & Suggestions

In summary, the problem is to find the integral of dx / (3cosx-4sinx), with the hint to make the substitution u=tan(x/2). The conversation discusses using the half angle formulas for sin x and cos x, as well as a change of variables, to simplify the integral. The final solution is found through a simple substitution and trigonometric identities.
  • #1
chimera
2
0
could you please give me any idea to solve the problem below;

integral( dx / (3cosx-4sinx) )


and given a hint to make a subtitution u=tan(x/2), I've tried to write cosx and sinx in the form of cos (x/2) and sin(x/2), but it's seems like I'm not going anywhere, any suggestions?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
[tex]\int (\frac{dx}{3cosx - 4sinx})[/tex]

Does this help?:

[tex]\int tanxdx = \int \frac{sinx}{cosx}dx[/tex]

It sounds like a partial fractions to me.

The Bob (2004 ©)
 
  • #3
Yes, you have to use the half angle formulas (or is it double angle formula?) for sin x and cos x.

[tex]\cos^2{x} = \frac {1 + \cos{2x}}{2} \ \ \mbox{and} \ \ \sin^2{x} = \frac {1-\cos{2x}}{2}[/tex]
 
  • #4
It looks really ugly.

[tex] I=:\int \frac{dx}{3\cos x-4\sin x} [/tex](1)

Make the substitution:

[tex] x=2\arctan u (<=> u=\tan\frac{x}{2}) [/tex] (2)

,under which simple trigonometry and differentiation will show that

[tex] dx=\frac{2 du}{1+u^{2}} [/tex] (3)

[tex] \sin x= \frac{2u}{1+u^{2}} [/tex] (4)

[tex] \cos x=\frac{1-u^{2}}{1+u^{2}} [/tex] (5)

Can u continue from here...?

Daniel.
 
  • #5
thanks, i got it =)
 
  • #6
Dextercioby, I don't get what u wrote. in the 4th warning. the (2) would u tell me. thanx
 
  • #7
One-D: It's 4'th POST, not WARNING!
Daniel made a very common and useful change of variables.
That's all there is to it.
 
  • #8
Incidentally i have 4 warnings...:rofl: :uhh:

Daniel.
 
  • #9
dextercioby said:
Incidentally i have 4 warnings...:rofl: :uhh:

Daniel.
I already knew you were a good and inoffensive boy..:wink:
 
  • #10
Thanks for the trust.Marlon feels the same way,though i don't remember any warning gotten from the clashes we've had...:wink:

Daniel.
 
  • #11
thanx. know i understand. it's only a simple subs. thanks anyway.
 

What is the u-substitution method in solving integrals?

The u-substitution method is a technique used in solving integrals where a substitution is made to simplify the integrand. This substitution, represented by the variable u, can be chosen to make the integral easier to solve.

How do I know when to use u-substitution?

You can use u-substitution when the integrand contains a function and its derivative, or when it is in the form of a polynomial multiplied by a trigonometric function.

What is the general process for solving integrals with u-substitution?

The general process for solving integrals with u-substitution is as follows:

  1. Identify the function that can be substituted as u and its derivative.
  2. Make the substitution by replacing the function and its derivative with u and du, respectively.
  3. Simplify the integrand using the substitution.
  4. Integrate the simplified expression with respect to u.
  5. Replace u with the original function in terms of x.
  6. Add the constant of integration, if necessary.

What are some tips for successfully solving integrals with u-substitution?

Some tips for successfully solving integrals with u-substitution are:

  • Choose the substitution carefully to simplify the integrand as much as possible.
  • Double-check the derivative of the substituted function to ensure it matches the integrand.
  • Be mindful of any limits of integration and adjust accordingly when substituting.
  • Practice, practice, practice! The more you solve integrals using u-substitution, the easier it will become.

How do I solve integrals with u=tan(x/2)?

To solve integrals with u=tan(x/2), you can follow these steps:

  1. Identify the function that can be substituted as u, which in this case is tan(x/2).
  2. Find the derivative of u, which is sec2(x/2).
  3. Substitute u=tan(x/2) and du=sec2(x/2)dx into the integral.
  4. Simplify the integrand using the substitution.
  5. Integrate the simplified expression with respect to u.
  6. Replace u with tan(x/2) in the final answer.
  7. Add the constant of integration, if necessary.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
326
  • Calculus
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
964
Replies
4
Views
301
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top