How do you intergrate cos^3 [x] .dx

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter suddy72
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the integration of the function cos^3(x) with respect to x. Participants explore methods for solving this integral, including standard techniques and tools for verification.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests assistance with the steps to integrate cos^3(x).
  • Another participant outlines a method involving the separation of cos^3(x) into cos^2(x) and cos(x), suggesting the use of the identity sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1 to facilitate the integration.
  • A later post questions the use of mathematical symbols in the discussion, indicating a need for clarification on formatting.
  • Another participant provides information about LaTex Math Typesetting as a way to use mathematical symbols effectively in messages.
  • A suggestion is made to use an online integrator powered by Mathematica for checking work on integrals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method for integrating cos^3(x) as a standard problem, but there is no consensus on the formatting of mathematical symbols, as some participants express confusion about it.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to specific mathematical techniques and tools, but does not resolve the formatting questions raised by participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Students seeking help with integration techniques, individuals interested in mathematical formatting, and those looking for online tools to verify integrals.

suddy72
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could some one please show me the steps to doing this ??
 
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[itex]\int cos^3(x)dx[/itex] is a standard problem. Anytime you have an odd power of either sin or cos take one of the out to match with the dx:

[tex]\int(cos^2(x))(cos(x)dx)[/tex]

Now we can use [itex]sin^2(x)+ cos^2(x)= 1[/itex] to convert to the other trig function:

[tex]\int(1- sin^2(x))(cos(x)dx)[/tex]

and, of course, the whole reason for taking out that orginal "cos(x)" is that
d(sin(x))= cos(x)dx.

Let u= sin(x). Then du= cos(x)dx and the integral is

[tex]\int(1-u^2)du[/tex]
and that should be easy.
 
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Well, I beg your forgiveness for this question b/c its really an irrelevant one.

Can you please tell me how you use these mathematical symbols like integral sign and superscripts etc in your messages?
 
Xishan said:
Well, I beg your forgiveness for this question b/c its really an irrelevant one.

Can you please tell me how you use these mathematical symbols like integral sign and superscripts etc in your messages?
It's called LaTex Math Typesetting and is really pretty cool. Check out this thread for more information:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=8997
 
suddy, if you want a place to check your work, the integrator works fine--- powered by mathematica.

http://integrals.com/
 

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