Solving Various Calc Test Questions - Get Answers Here

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses various calculus test questions, focusing on integration techniques, derivatives of inverse functions, and trigonometric identities. The scope includes problem-solving approaches and mathematical reasoning related to these topics.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests rewriting the integral \(\int \frac{dx}{3\sin x - 4\cos x}\) in a different form to facilitate integration.
  • Another participant questions whether it is acceptable to leave \(g(x)\) in the answer when finding \(g'(x)\) for the inverse function of \(f(x) = 3 + x^2 + \sin(\pi x)\).
  • A third participant introduces a substitution for integrals of similar forms, providing relationships for \(\sin x\) and \(\cos x\) in terms of \(t = \tan \frac{x}{2}\), while expressing uncertainty about one of the derivatives.
  • One participant clarifies that finding \(g'(x)\) does not require finding the inverse function explicitly, but rather using implicit differentiation.
  • There is a discussion about the addition formula for sine in relation to the problem involving \(\sin[\arcsine(1/3) + \arcsine(2/3)]\), with participants exploring different approaches to the problem.
  • Another participant notes that the solution provided by a previous contributor can also be applied, indicating multiple methods may exist for the same problem.
  • One participant expresses relief that the problems were easier than initially thought and introduces a new question regarding limits and integrals, asking if a certain equation represents a square.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various approaches to the problems, with some methods overlapping while others differ. There is no consensus on the best approach for each question, and the discussion remains open-ended regarding the new question introduced.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about specific mathematical steps or interpretations, indicating that assumptions may not be fully clarified. The discussion includes multiple methods for solving the same problems, reflecting varying levels of understanding and interpretation.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for calculus exams, individuals seeking assistance with calculus homework, and those interested in mathematical problem-solving techniques may find this discussion beneficial.

JonF
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I just took a take home calc test this weekend, turned it in this morning. There were a few questions I couldn’t answer. Will you guys tell me (or even better show me) how to solve these?

#1 [tex]\int \frac{dx}{3sinx - 4cosx}[/tex]

#2 Find g’(x) where g is an inverse function of f(x)
f(x) = 3 + x^2 + sin([pi]x) -0.4 < x < 0.4

#3 find the exact value of sin[arcsine(1/3) + arcsine(2/3)]
 
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#1. You can rewrite 3sin(x) - 4cos(x) as k * sin(x + v), where k and v are constants. Then you just have integrate 1/k * csc(x + v).

#2. Hmm, I wonder if you can leave g(x) in the answer?

#3. Simpify using the addition formula for sine, and find a formula for cos(arcsin(x/y)).
 
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Here is always a useful substitution for integrals of that and similar form:

[tex]t = \tan \frac{x}{2}[/tex]


[tex]\cos x = \frac{1-t^2}{1+t^2}[/tex]


[tex]\sin x = \frac{2t}{1+t^2}[/tex]


[tex]\frac{dx}{dt} = \frac{2}{1+t^2}[/tex]

(Not 100% sure I have that last one right)
 
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#2 - f(x) = 3 + x^2 + sin([pi]x)
g(x) is the inverse of f(x). Remember, just because it is written as g(x) doesn't mean that you have to make g a function of x. You are not asked to find the inverse of the function. You are rather being asked to find dy/dx of the inverse.

The inverse of f(x) is:
x = 3 + y^2 + sin([pi]y)

now can you find dy/dx? (think of it as implicit differentiation)

EDIT: nevermind you can't do this. I just realized they don't want dy/dx they instead want g'(x) which is not the same thing.
 
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How does this take-home test system work? What is stopping you from asking these same questions during the test period (other than your conscience - but who ever listens to it anyways?)?
 
Parth Dave said:
(other than your conscience)

thats about it. It was 25 questions and these are the only 3 that i didn't get right I'm pretty sure.
 
JonF said:
#3 find the exact value of sin[arcsine(1/3) + arcsine(2/3)]
[tex]sin(x+y) = ?[/tex]
[tex]sin(sin^-^1(x))= ?[/tex]
 
forget to say it is just another way to solve the problem because the answer given by Muzza can also be applied..
 
Seems to me like we were thinking of the same solution. Since you know, sin(x + y) will not only include sin(x) and sin(y), but also cos(x) and cos(y)...
 
  • #10
Yeah, i should have thought about what you wrote more deeper...Nothing big right ? --lol

Uhmm, the same!
 
  • #11
Thanks for the help guys, those problems were a lot easier then I was making them out to be…

i have a new question…

Is the equation [tex]y = \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \pm(1 - x^{2n})^{1/2n}[/tex] a square?

Is [tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \int \pm(1 - x^{2n})^{1/2n} dx[/tex] = to 4? i.e. a 2x2 square?
 
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