Another Indefinite Integral question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the indefinite integral of the function cos(x)/sin²(x) with respect to x. Participants are exploring the integration process and addressing potential errors in the original poster's approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use substitution with u = sin(x) and expresses confusion about the resulting integral. Other participants clarify the transformation and question the original poster's understanding of the integration process.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the integral, providing insights into the substitution method and addressing specific points of confusion. Some guidance has been offered regarding the integral's evaluation, but there remains a lack of consensus on the original poster's interpretation of the steps involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of previous questions affecting the current understanding, and the original poster is seeking clarification on their earlier mistakes. The discussion reflects an ongoing exploration of integration techniques and the handling of trigonometric functions.

neshepard
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Homework Statement


∫cos(x)/sin^2(x)*dx


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Based off my earlier question, where is my error please.
u=sinx du=cosx*dx
∫u^-1*du sin(x)^-1 1/sin(x) + C -or-csc(x) + C

Thanks
 
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your integral now becomes:
<br /> \int\frac{du}{u^{2}}=-\frac{1}{u}+C=-\frac{1}{\sin x}+C<br />
 
But where does the -1/u com from? Since the dx of sin(x) is cos(x) and the sin(x) was in the denominator, I know to subtract 1 from the original sin^2(x) in the denominator instead of add. But I keep coming up with 1/sin(x)
 
Last edited:
You should know that:
<br /> \int u^{n}du=\frac{1}{n+1}u^{n+1}+C\quad n\neq -1<br />
Just take n=-2 for the answer you require.
 
I think I see your question (sorry)
The integral is:
<br /> \int\frac{\cos x}{\sin^{2}x}dx<br />
let u=\sin x, then du/dx=cos x and the integral reduces to the one I posted earlier.
 

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