Calculating the Average Value of cos^2(x) [0,(pi/4)]

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the average value of the function cos²(x) over the interval [0, π/4]. Participants are exploring the mathematical approach to this problem, including the use of integration and the relevant formula for average value.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration process and the formula for average value, with one participant expressing uncertainty about their calculations. There are attempts to clarify the bounds of integration and the interpretation of the results.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided attempts at the solution, with some guidance offered regarding the formatting of mathematical expressions. There is an ongoing exploration of the calculations, with participants questioning the accuracy of their results and discussing the implications of their findings.

Contextual Notes

One participant mentions difficulties with formatting mathematical symbols, which may affect the clarity of their attempts. There is also a noted confusion regarding the final numerical result of the integration.

Allie G
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Homework Statement



find the average value of cos^2(x) [0,(pi/4)]

Homework Equations



I don't think I'm doing it correctly I know the formula,(I won't put my attempt because I don't have math symbols on my computer) but I get 1 as the answer every time which doesn't seem correct

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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You should try to give your attempt.
If you select "Go Advanced" during a Quick Reply
or "Quote" an earlier post, you'll see a small [tex]\Sigma[/tex] symbol, which will help you compose the mathematical symbols.
 
ok so my attempt is
(4/pi)[tex]\int\overline{}4/pi[/tex][tex]\underline{}0[/tex](1/2)(1+cos2x)

(2/pi)[x+sin2x/2][tex]\overline{}pi/4[/tex][tex]\underline{}0[/tex]

(2/pi)[(pi/4+(1/2)=1
 
hmm I am sorry I am new i don't think i can get it right the 4/pi is the upper bound the 0 is the lower bound
 
Allie G said:
ok so my attempt is
(4/pi)[tex]\int\overline{}4/pi[/tex][tex]\underline{}0[/tex](1/2)(1+cos2x)

(2/pi)[x+sin2x/2][tex]\overline{}pi/4[/tex][tex]\underline{}0[/tex]

(2/pi)[(pi/4+(1/2)=1

Don't worry about the formatting. Better luck next time. But you are doing great! Except (2/pi)[pi/4+(1/2)] doesn't equal 1. Notice where I put the brackets.
 
Last edited:
Dick said:
Don't worry about the formatting. Better luck next time. But you are doing great! Except (2/pi)[pi/4+(1/2)] doesn't equal 1. Notice where I put the brackets.

Soo that would be equal to
(1/pi)+(1/2)?
 
Allie G said:
Soo that would be equal to
(1/pi)+(1/2)?

Yessss. It would. That's 0.8183... Not 1.
 
thank you so much
 

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