Can the Integral of 1/sqrt(a^2-x^2) be Applied to Complex Numbers?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the differential equation x'' - 1/x^2 = 0, which models a particle influenced by a mass at the origin. The solution involves the equation (1/2)(x')^2 + 1/x = C, where C is a constant. The user attempted to compute the integral ∫ (dx / (2√(C - 1/x))) using Mathematica, but encountered a complex formula. The conversation highlights the relevance of the integral of the form 1/√(a^2 - x^2) and its potential application to complex numbers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential equations, specifically second-order equations.
  • Familiarity with integral calculus and techniques for solving integrals.
  • Experience with Mathematica for symbolic computation.
  • Knowledge of complex analysis, particularly integration in the complex plane.
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  • Study the properties of the integral ∫ (1/√(a^2 - x^2)) and its applications in complex analysis.
  • Learn how to manipulate and solve differential equations using Mathematica.
  • Explore the relationship between arcsin and integrals involving square roots of quadratic expressions.
  • Investigate the implications of integrating functions over complex domains.
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Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those focused on differential equations, integral calculus, and complex analysis. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of mathematical modeling and integration techniques.

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Homework Statement



The problem occurred when solving x'' - \frac{1}{x^2} = 0.
You can think of this as if there is a mass in the origin (M) and a small particle (m << M) is being pulled by this mass.

Daniel helped me to solve this diff. eq. and we are at

Homework Equations



\frac{1}{2} (x&#039;)^2 + \frac{1}{x} = C where C is a constant.

The Attempt at a Solution



I asked Mathematica to solve \int \frac{dx}{2\sqrt{C-1/x}}. It gives me some very complicated formula which isn't too handy. At first, this problem seemed to me a trivial exercise, but now I realize that this may not be an easy one. I hope somebody can help. Thank you very much in advance!
 
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I know there's a formula to solve integrals of the form 1/sqrt(a^2-x^2) but I'm not sure if holds for complex numbers.

if integration is about the same for complex numbers then you can try getting it in the form of the derivative of arcsin x.
 

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