Find constants and antiderivative problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding constants c1 and c2 such that the function F(x) = c1xsinx + c2cosx serves as an antiderivative of f(x) = 4xcos(x) + 3sin(x). The discussion centers around the differentiation and integration of trigonometric functions combined with polynomial terms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the setup of the problem and express uncertainty about the correct method to find the constants. Some suggest using integration by parts, while others propose differentiating F(x) to compare it with f(x). There is also a mention of equating coefficients from both sides of an equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different methods to approach the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding differentiation and integration techniques, but there is no explicit consensus on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of integrating products of functions and are questioning their understanding of the differentiation process. There is an acknowledgment of potential confusion regarding the application of integration by parts.

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Homework Statement


Find constants c1 and c2 such that F(x) = c1xsinx+c2cosx is an antiderivative of f(x) = 4xcos(x)+3sin(x)

Homework Equations


d/dx cosx = -sinx
d/dx sinx = cosx

The Attempt at a Solution


Don't know how to setup or handle a problem such as this. Prolly much simplier than I'm making it out to be, but here's my attempt:

(-4(x^2)sinx)/(2) + 3cosx
-2(x^2)sinx + 3cosx

Any advice would help. I know my method is wrong.
 
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You don;t integrate a product like that. Try using integration by parts

[tex]\int u \frac{dv}{dx} dx =uv- \int v \frac{du}{dx} dx[/tex]
 


dunno if I understand that correctly...but here's what I think it means to do:

4xcosx-(cosx)(4) ??
 


You want to choose c1 and c2 such that F'(x) is equal to f(x), why not differentiate F(x) set the derivative equal to f(x) and see if you can figure out what the constants should be?
 


F'(x) = c1xsinx+c2cosx

=c1sinx+c1xcosx-c2sinx

c1sinx+c1xcosx-c2sinx=c1xcosx+sinx(c1-c2)
c1-c2 = (4xcosx+3sinx-c1xcosx) / (sinx)

now what? doesn't seem like anything simplifies
 


c1xcosx+sinx(c1-c2) = 4xcos(x)+3sin(x)

Right?

equate coefficients now.

i.e. coefficient of sin(x) in the left side = Coefficient of sin(x) on the right side.
 

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