Integrating Simple Expression: Solving (e^ax)cos^2(2bx)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating the expression (e^ax)cos^2(2bx), where a and b are positive constants. Participants are exploring methods to simplify the integration process and are encountering difficulties with the approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to rewrite the expression using complex exponentials and is unsure about the next steps. Some participants suggest using trigonometric identities to simplify cos^2(2bx) and factor exponents in the expression.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing different methods to approach the integration. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of trigonometric identities and factoring exponents, but there is no explicit consensus on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses frustration with the complexity of the problem and mentions that previous attempts have not yielded satisfactory results. There is a sense of confusion regarding the integration process and the effectiveness of the tools being used.

Geronimo85
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I'm supposed to integrate the following expression, and supposedly there is a very simple way to do so. Maple comes up with something rediculous, so I'd appreciate any input. Sorry about the short hand, don't know how to make everything pretty on here:

Integral[(e^ax)cos^2(2bx)dx] where a and b are positive constants

So far all I've got is:

(e^ax)cos^2(2bx)= (e^ax)*[(e^(i*2*b*x) - e^(-i*2*b*x))/2]^2

because: cosx = (e^ix - e^-ix)/2

squaring inside the brackets gets me:

(e^ax)* [((e^(i*2*b*x)-e^(-i*2*b*x)/2)^2]

I'm just really not getting something here
 
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[tex]e^{ax}.e^{-bx} = e^{(a-b)x}[/tex]

You should be able to work from that, just factor the exponents. The final integral won't look pretty.
 
How many times are you going to post this same question?
 
Use cos^2(2bx)=[1+cos(4bx)]/2.
 
sorry about reposting it, I just feel like I'm going in circles
 

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