Calculus problem: Integral of sqrt(1/4-(x+3)^2

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    Calculus Integral
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the integral of the function sqrt(1/4 - (x + 3)^2), which falls under the subject area of calculus, specifically focusing on integration techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various strategies for simplifying the integral, including attempts at trigonometric substitution and u-substitution. There is a focus on understanding the integration process rather than relying on known formulas.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided hints and suggestions for simplification, while others express their confusion and seek further clarification on specific steps. The conversation reflects a mix of exploration and attempts to clarify the problem without reaching a consensus on a single method.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention a desire to avoid using standard formulas and express uncertainty about the integration process, indicating a focus on understanding rather than just obtaining an answer.

ckwan48
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I've been trying to solve this integral for a very long time!
Problem: Integral of sqrt(1/4-(x+3)^2

Effort: I have tried multiplying by sqrt(1/4) to get rid of the 4 so it can become a 1, so it will match up with inverse sine's derivative. After that I got kind of lost, since I don't know what happens or what will (x+3)^2, will become. I know what the answer should be like, but I want to do it without using that special formula, that they provide.

I know there's some trick because I didn't in high school, however, I don't recall it. I don't want to use that simple formula because it doesn't really tell you what's happening in the integration process. Can someone help me out? Thanks!
 
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[tex]\int \sqrt{\frac{1}{4-(x+3)^2}}dx[/tex]

If that is your integral, you could simplify this to

[tex]\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{4-(x+3)^2}}dx[/tex]

Then try a trig substitution.

Think of sin2A+cos2A=1
 
Yeah that is, I know it's suppose to be inverse sine and then I try getting rid of the 4 by multiplying sqrt(1/4) and then I get lost. Extra hints would help, thanks!
 
ckwan48 said:
Yeah that is, I know it's suppose to be inverse sine and then I try getting rid of the 4 by multiplying sqrt(1/4) and then I get lost. Extra hints would help, thanks!

Can you show your steps? It might be hard to give you a hint when I don't really know where you get lost.
 
I've attached a file, of what I have done so far. The "question mark" is where I'm stuck. And am I doing this step, right? Thanks!
 

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It might help to do the substitution u = (x+3)/2
 
i figured it out! i used u-substitution to make the integral simpler and then i factored out the 4.
 

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