Efficient Integration by Parts: Solving \int x^2*cosx dx with Step-by-Step Guide

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the integral \(\int x^2 \cos(x) \, dx\) using integration by parts. The user correctly identifies the first integration by parts with \(u = x^2\) and \(dv = \cos(x) \, dx\), leading to the equation \(\int x^2 \cos(x) \, dx = -x^2 \sin(x) + \int 2x \sin(x) \, dx\). However, the user makes an error in the sign of \(v\) when integrating \(\cos(x)\), which should be \(v = \sin(x)\) instead of \(-\sin(x)\). This mistake leads to an incorrect final answer, which is clarified by another forum member.

PREREQUISITES
  • Integration by parts methodology
  • Understanding of trigonometric integrals
  • Familiarity with LaTeX for mathematical expressions
  • Basic calculus concepts, particularly integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the integration by parts formula and its applications
  • Study trigonometric integrals, focusing on \(\int \cos(x) \, dx\) and \(\int \sin(x) \, dx\)
  • Practice solving integrals involving polynomials multiplied by trigonometric functions
  • Learn how to use LaTeX for presenting mathematical solutions clearly
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Students studying calculus, particularly those learning integration techniques, and educators looking for examples of integration by parts in action.

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Homework Statement



[tex]\int x^2*cosx dx[/tex]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Okay, so I started by making...
u=x^2
du=2x
dv=cos(x)
v=-sin(x)

Then I made the rudimentary equation:

[tex]\int x^2 * cos(x) dx = -x^2*sin(x) + \int 2x * sin(x) dx[/tex]

Then I took the last integration problem (the one all the way on the right) and did integration by parts on that one again, to make:

u=2x
du=2
dv=sin(x)
v=-cos(x)

to make...

[tex]\int x^2 * cos(x) dx = -x^2 * sin(x) + 2x * sin(x) + \int 2 * cos(x) dx[/tex]

I evaluated the last integration problem to be -2*sin(x), and got a final answer of sin(x)(-x^2+2x-2) (after factoring). Of course, my calculator says this is wrong, so where'd I mess up?

Thanks. (I'm getting better with Latex, btw)
 
Last edited:
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In your first step, if dv=cos(x)dx, then v=sin(x) (no minus sign).
 

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