Arc length problem with a thorny integration

[aucuneidee]

Homework Statement

So, the question gives a particle traveling over a path \gamma, and I need the arc length.

Homework Equations

The path is \gamma(t) : [1,4] \to ℝ^3, t \mapsto (t^2/2, t, ln(2t)).

We want the arc length over 1 \le t \le 4.

The Attempt at a Solution

First, the speed differential: ds = \left\| \gamma'(t) \right\| dt = \sqrt{t^2 + 1 + 1 /t^2} dt

Now, the arc length. \ell = \int_\gamma ds = \int_1^4 \sqrt{t^2 + 1 + 1 /t^2}dt.

But that's where the fun ends. I've tried a bunch of trig substitutions (e.g. t=\tan u), to no avail.

I also tried Wolfram online integrator, which returned a mess of symbols -- this problem should have a (reasonably) simple analytic solution.

Any ideas, anyone? I'd really appreciate any help!

 

[HallsofIvy]

Didn't you notice that t^2+ 1+ 1/t^2= t^2+ 2+ 1/t^2- 1= (t+ 1/t)^2- 1?

 

[aucuneidee]

Didn't you notice that t^2+ 1+ 1/t^2= t^2+ 2+ 1/t^2- 1= (t+ 1/t)^2- 1?

I had, but didn't realize it would help. I'll play around and see what I can come up with. :)

Thankyou for the quick response!