Integration by partial fractions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of the function (x^2-1)/((x+2)^2(x+3)), focusing on the method of partial fractions for solving the integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to decompose the integral into partial fractions but expresses difficulty in setting up the corresponding equations. Some participants suggest specific values for x to simplify the process of solving for constants. Others question the structure of the fractions being used in the decomposition.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes various attempts to clarify the setup of the partial fractions. While some participants provide guidance on how to approach solving for the constants, there is no explicit consensus on the correct form of the decomposition. The discussion remains open with multiple interpretations being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of careful notation and the potential for confusion in the setup of the fractions. There is an acknowledgment of the need for clarity in the expressions used for the partial fractions.

Spectre32
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Ok this is the Integral:

(x^2-1)/((x+2)^2(x+3))


Now What i did is break this up into the A + B+C ...etc etc and i came to this:


A/(x+2)^2 + Bx+C/(x+2) + D/X+3... Now i know i got to use systems of equations but I've been working on this for like 40 mins and i still can't get it straight. If anyone can help me power through this i should then be set.
 
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multiply everything by (x+2)^2(x+3). After that if you set x=-3 than everything will cancel out except D, which you can than solve for. If you set x=-3 you can create an equation that you can solve for later.

Here comes the annoying part. Expand everything out. Than group everything that has the same degree polynomial (ie group everything that is x^2, x^1, x^0) and factor out the x term. You'll notice that all of this must be equal to x^2-1. Thus, whatever you have infront of x^2 must be 1. Whatever you have infront of x must be 0. Everything else would have to be -1. You have a bunch of equations and 3 more variables to solve for. Enjoy.

i got A=0, D=8, C=-7, B=3.
 
(Note to Spectre: you need to be more careful about using parentheses)

Why do you have (Bx + C) / (x + 2)?
 
Its supposed to be (Ax + B) / (x + 2)^2 + C/(x + 2) + D/(x + 3)...
 
Why do you have (Ax + B) / (x + 2)^2?
 
Yeah I know... i broke it up and then everything went to plan.. thanks.
 

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