Definite integral involving partial fractions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating a definite integral using trigonometric substitution and partial fractions. Participants are exploring the setup and simplification of the integral, particularly focusing on the correct application of trigonometric identities and algebraic manipulation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant describes their attempt at a solution involving a trigonometric substitution and expresses uncertainty about the number of linear terms needed for partial fractions. Others point out errors in notation and algebra, questioning the setup of the equations and the simplification process.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaged in clarifying the algebraic steps and correcting notation errors. Some guidance has been offered regarding the setup of the polynomial equation and the need for careful attention to detail in the expressions used. There is an ongoing exploration of the correct approach to the partial fraction decomposition.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the extent of guidance provided. There is an acknowledgment of gaps in knowledge that some participants are seeking to address through this discussion.

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.
 

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