Can this integral be solved using elementary functions?

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The integral ∫(cos y)/√(a-y) dy cannot be solved using elementary functions. Initial attempts involved integration by parts, but led to a repetitive cycle without a clear solution. A participant pointed out that the proposed answer of 2 sin(y) was incorrect, as its derivative does not match the integrand. The consensus is that the integral does not yield a solution in terms of elementary functions. Ultimately, the integral remains unsolved within the constraints of elementary calculus.
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Homework Statement
Find
\int\frac{\cos y}{\sqrt(a-y)}\,dy

The attempt at a solution
Let U = cos y and dV = \frac{1}{\sqrt(a-y)}

I get: cosy.-2√(a-y) - 2∫√(a-y).siny.dy

So, again, i use partial integration:
Let U = siny and let dV = [-2(a-y)^(3/2)]/3

I get: siny.[-2(a-y)^(3/2)]/3 + (2/3)∫[(a-y)^(3/2)].cosy.dy

But the cycle is endless. I need to get the answer 2siny.
 
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No, you don't. "2 sin(y)" can't possibly be correct because the derivative of 2 sin y is 2 cos y, not "cos(y)/\sqrt{a- y}".
 
You are correct. My mistake. I solved it.
 
sharks said:
Homework Statement
Find
\int\frac{\cos y}{\sqrt(a-y)}\,dy

The attempt at a solution
Let U = cos y and dV = \frac{1}{\sqrt(a-y)}

sharks said:
You are correct. My mistake. I solved it.

Not with any "elementary" functions; I don't think so.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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