How to obtain the rational function integration recursive formula

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The discussion focuses on obtaining a recursive formula for integrating rational functions, specifically the integral of the form ∫(1/(u²+α²)ᵐ) du. The formula is referenced from Apostol's Calculus, which claims it can be derived through integration by parts. Participants express curiosity about the demonstration of this formula, with one user suggesting a method involving the manipulation of integrals to derive the recursive relationship. The conversation highlights the challenge of understanding the integration by parts technique as applied to this specific case. Overall, the thread seeks clarity on the derivation process of the recursive formula.
mr_sparxx
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I've been dealing with several integrals involving rational functions. I have encountered myself arriving to an integral that requires the application of the following recursive formula:

\int\frac{1}{(u^2+α^ 2)^m} \, du= \frac{u}{2 α^ 2 (m-1)(u^2+α^ 2)^{m-1}}+\frac{2m-3}{2 α^2 (m-1)}\int\frac{1}{(u^2+α^ 2)^{m-1}} \, du

as stated in Apostol's Calculus.

However, I am curious about the demonstration of this formula. Apostol states in his book that it is obtained by integrating by parts, but I don't see how... does anybody have any ideas?

Thanks!

Bibliography
Calculus, Volume 1, One-variable calculus, with an introduction to linear algebra, (1967) Wiley, ISBN 0-536-00005-0, ISBN 978-0-471-00005-1
 
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hi mr_sparxx! :smile:

put Im = ##\int\frac{1}{(u^2+α^2)^m} \, du##

then Im-1 = ##\int\frac{u^2+α^2}{(u^2+α^2)^m} \, du##

= ##\int\frac{u^2}{(u^2+α^2)^m} \, du## + α2Im

= (something)##\left[\frac{u}{(u^2+α^2)^{m-1}}\right]## + (something)Im-1 + α2Im

carry on from there :wink:
 
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Awesome! :)
Thanks tiny-Tim (specially for leaving some of the fun for me) ;P
 

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