Can Trig Substitution be used to Solve Trigonometric Integrals?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of trigonometric substitution to solve the integral $$I=\int \sin(t) \cos(2t) \ dt$$. The substitution used is $$u=\cos(t)$$, leading to the transformed integral $$I=\int (1-2u^2) du$$. The final result is $$\cos(t) - \frac{2\cos^3(t)}{3} + C$$, which is confirmed as correct by differentiating the anti-derivative to retrieve the original integrand. The discussion highlights the effectiveness of trigonometric substitution in simplifying integrals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, specifically $$\cos(2t) = 2\cos^2(t) - 1$$
  • Knowledge of integral calculus and techniques for integration
  • Familiarity with substitution methods in calculus
  • Ability to differentiate functions to verify results
NEXT STEPS
  • Study advanced techniques in integral calculus, focusing on trigonometric integrals
  • Learn about different substitution methods in calculus, including hyperbolic and exponential substitutions
  • Explore the use of computer algebra systems like TI calculators for verifying integral solutions
  • Investigate the properties of definite integrals and their applications in physics and engineering
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus, as well as anyone looking to deepen their understanding of trigonometric integrals and substitution techniques.

karush
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{8.7.4 whit} nmh{962}
$$\displaystyle
I=\int \sin\left({t}\right) \cos\left({2t}\right) \ dt $$
substitution

$u=\cos\left({t}\right)
\ \ \ du=-\sin\left({t}\right) \ dt
\ \ \ \cos\left({2t}\right) =2\cos^2 \left({t}\right)-1 $
$\displaystyle
I=\int \left(1-2u^2 \right) du
\implies u-\frac{2u^3}{3}+C$
Back substittute u

$\displaystyle \cos\left({t}\right)-\frac{2\cos^3(t) }{3}+C $
TI gave a different answer but might be alternative form
 
Last edited:
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Differentiating your anti-derivative w.r.t $t$ gets you back to the original integrand, so it is correct. (Yes)
 
Guess I'm slowly getting out of square one with
Integral substitutions
😎😎😎😎
 

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