Definite integral involving partial fractions

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The discussion focuses on solving a definite integral using trigonometric substitution and partial fractions. The user attempted a substitution with u=tan(θ/2) and encountered difficulties with the algebraic simplification and the setup for partial fractions. Key errors identified include incorrect variable usage and miscalculations in the algebra, particularly regarding the cancellation of terms. Guidance was provided on correcting these mistakes and setting up the polynomial equation needed to solve for the constants in the partial fraction decomposition. The user acknowledged the need to reinforce their understanding of the underlying concepts.
Obliv
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Homework Statement


04c586f47c.png


Homework Equations


trigonometric identities

The Attempt at a Solution


I did a trig substitution of u=tan(θ/2) and from that I could substitute cos(θ) = 1-u2/1+u2

dθ = 2/(1+u2)
du = 1/2 sec2(θ/2) dθ

I simplified a bit and changed the bounds to get 2du/(5u2 + 1)(1 + u2)2 with lower bound 0 and upper bound 1.

I think at this point I have to do partial fractions. Do I need 3 linear terms or 2? I tried Ax+B/5u2+1 + Cx + D/(1+u2)2 + Ex+F/(1+u2) = 2/(5u2 + 1)(1 + u2)

I have no idea how to evaluate such a complicated system of equations. I could really use some guidance here.
 
Last edited:
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First you need to fix up the errors.

You have written x in the numerators where you should have written u.
You have omitted parentheses around your numerators and denominators.
You have omitted the exponent 2 in the second factor of the denominator on the RHS.

Once you've done that, multiply both sides by the RHS denominator and you'll have a polynomial equation of order 6 with six unknown constants. Put it all on one side and then you get seven equations by equating the coefficient of each power of u to zero.

Those equations will enable you to solve to find the constants.
 
Obliv said:

Homework Statement


04c586f47c.png


Homework Equations


trigonometric identities

The Attempt at a Solution


I did a trig substitution of u=tan(θ/2) and from that I could substitute cos(θ) = (1-u2)/(1+u2)
Throw some parentheses in where needed, and that looks right.
dθ = 2/(1+u2)
There should be a du on the right hand side of the above.
##\displaystyle \ d\theta=\frac{2}{1+u^2}du \ ##

I don't see any need to use the following.
du = 1/2 sec2(θ/2) dθ

I simplified a bit and changed the bounds to get 2du/(5u2 + 1)(1 + u2)2 with lower bound 0 and upper bound 1.
Check your Algebra. I get that the (1+ u2) should cancel, not be squared.
I think at this point I have to do partial fractions. Do I need 3 linear terms or 2? I tried Ax+B/5u2+1 + Cx + D/(1+u2)2 + Ex+F/(1+u2) = 2/(5u2 + 1)(1 + u2)

I have no idea how to evaluate such a complicated system of equations. I could really use some guidance here.
 
Last edited:
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SammyS said:
I don't see any need to use the following.

Check your Algieba. I get that the (1+ u2) should cancel, not be squared.

thanks a ton. I didn't catch that at first. I actually re-checked my algebra like 10 times and kept getting different answers. It's sad to see gaps in my knowledge but I guess this gives me good reason to strengthen those areas.
 
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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