Why is my answer for integrating tan^3(x) dx wrong?

When you use u = tan(x), you are essentially substituting for the sec^2(x) dx term, which gives you the (1/2)sec^2(x) term in your solution. The remaining integral is the same as the one you started with, and when you substitute for z = cos(x), you get the ln |cos(x)| term. So in summary, the solution is (1/2)sec^2(x) + ln |cos(x)| + C.
  • #1
LusTRouZ
3
0
I'm not understanding why my answer is wrong

Homework Statement


[tex]\int[/tex]tan^3(x) dx
This is the solution I've been getting for this problem, but I notice you get a different answer when you let u = tan(x) and du = sec^2(x) dx

Homework Equations


tan^2(x) = (sec^2(x) - 1)

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]\int[/tex]tan(x) (sec^2(x) - 1) dx
[tex]\int[/tex]tan(x) sec^2(x) - [tex]\int[/tex]tan(x) dx
. // u = sec(x) du = sec(x)tan(x) dx
[tex]\int[/tex]u du - [tex]\int[/tex]sin(x) dx[tex]/[/tex]cos(x)
. // z = cos(x) zu = -sin(x) dx
[tex]\int[/tex]u du - [tex]\int[/tex]-zu[tex]/[/tex]z
(1[tex]/[/tex]2)u^2 - (-ln |z|)
(1[tex]/[/tex]2)sec^2(x) + ln |cos(x)|

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
What you have there is correct, up to a constant at least.
 

1. What is the general method for integrating tan^3(x) dx?

The general method for integrating tan^3(x) dx is to use the substitution method. This involves substituting u = tan(x) and rewriting the integral in terms of u. Then, using the power rule for integration, the integral can be solved.

2. Can I use trigonometric identities to simplify the integral of tan^3(x) dx?

Yes, you can use trigonometric identities to simplify the integral of tan^3(x) dx. One useful identity is tan^2(x) = sec^2(x) - 1, which can be used to rewrite tan^3(x) as (sec^2(x) - 1)tan(x). This can make the integral easier to solve.

3. Is there a shortcut or formula for integrating tan^3(x) dx?

Unfortunately, there is no shortcut or formula for integrating tan^3(x) dx. The best method is to use the substitution method and solve the integral step by step.

4. Can I solve the integral of tan^3(x) dx without using substitution?

No, using substitution is the most efficient and effective way to solve the integral of tan^3(x) dx. Other methods, such as integration by parts, can also be used but may be more complicated.

5. Are there any special cases or exceptions when integrating tan^3(x) dx?

There are no special cases or exceptions when integrating tan^3(x) dx. As long as the substitution method is used correctly, the integral can be solved for any value of x.

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