Can You Solve this Tough Indefinite Integral?

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SUMMARY

The integral \(\int\frac{1}{x^{2n} + 1}dx\) presents a challenge that can be approached using De Moivre's theorem to factor the denominator into its 2nth roots of unity. While the Mathematica online integrator suggests that the solution involves hypergeometric functions, the discussion indicates that a simpler method may exist without relying on Taylor or Maclaurin series expansions. The user expresses frustration at not being able to derive a solution beyond the factorization approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of indefinite integrals and integration techniques
  • Familiarity with De Moivre's theorem and complex numbers
  • Knowledge of hypergeometric functions and series
  • Basic skills in using Mathematica for integration
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for solving integrals involving complex roots
  • Learn about hypergeometric functions and their applications in integration
  • Explore Taylor and Maclaurin series expansions in the context of integration
  • Investigate alternative integration techniques that do not rely on series expansions
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Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in advanced integration techniques, particularly those dealing with complex functions and series expansions.

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A long time since i posted at physics forums. Anyways, try helping me solve the following integral

\int\frac{1}{x^{2n} + 1}dx

I tried many ways but all futile. The best way with which i could come up was factorising the denominator by de moivre's theorem. By finding the 2nth roots of unity. Hence i was able to express the denominator in a better way. But that's it. Dead end. I don't why but i get a feeling that we may able to do the sum by that way.

I am sorry that i am not able to presnt much work to you.

Hoping that you may be able to do the problem.
 
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Well, according to the Mathematica online integrator, the result is a hypergeometric function. I believe you get this result by Taylor expanding in powers of x, doing the integral term by term, and then noticing that the result is a hypergeometric series.

http://integrals.wolfram.com
 
Avodyne said:
Well, according to the Mathematica online integrator, the result is a hypergeometric function. I believe you get this result by Taylor expanding in powers of x, doing the integral term by term, and then noticing that the result is a hypergeometric series.

http://integrals.wolfram.com

Mathematica sometimes even gives answers in complex numbers to a simple problem. And the answer which i have in the book is not a hypertrigo function. There should be a way to bring the answer without Taylor or Maclauren cause we haven't been taught those yet.
 

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