How do I solve the integral ∫1/√(1+cosx) dx using substitution?

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    Integral Substitution
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the integral ∫1/√(1+cosx) dx using substitution methods. Participants explore various steps and techniques for simplifying the integral, focusing on mathematical reasoning and substitution strategies.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a series of substitutions and transformations to simplify the integral, but expresses uncertainty about the next steps after reaching a certain point.
  • Another participant suggests that the equations are difficult to interpret and recommends using LaTeX for clarity.
  • A different participant points out that the integral simplifies to 1/cos(t), which is the secant function, and suggests searching for information on integrating secant.
  • One participant acknowledges the feedback and expresses gratitude for the idea provided by another participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to solve the integral, and multiple suggestions and interpretations of the steps remain present.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the difficulty in interpreting the mathematical expressions due to formatting issues, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

Motivanka
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Hey guys I can't solve one integral ∫1/√(1+cosx) dx I have started like ∫1/√(1+(cos^2 x/2 -sin^2 x/2)) dx = ∫1/√(cos^2 x/2 + cos^2 x/2) dx = ∫1/√(2cos^2 x/2) dx = 1/√2 ∫1/(cos x/2) dx = { substitution t= x/2 dx= 2dt } = 2/√2 ∫ 1/cost dt= 2/√2 ∫1/ ( cos^2 t/2 - sin^2 t/2) dt = 2/√2 ∫1/(cos^2 t/2 (1-(sin^2 t/2 /cos^2 t/2))) dt = 2/√2 ∫ 1/ cos^2 t/2(1-tg^2 t/2)) dt = { substitution t/2=u dt=2du} = 4/√2 ∫1/ cos^2u(1-tg^2 u) du = after this I don't know what to do can someone help me please.
 
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Your equations are hard to interpret in this form. The best thing to do is read up on how to use Latex to type mathematical expressions in PF (click 'latex preview' then 'latex guide'), but just for now it would be easier if your steps were each on their own line.
 
Somewhere in the middle of that muddle you got the integral down to 1/cos(t), which is sec(t). Why not google for "integral sec" and see what comes up?
 
sk1105 said:
Your equations are hard to interpret in this form. The best thing to do is read up on how to use Latex to type mathematical expressions in PF (click 'latex preview' then 'latex guide'), but just for now it would be easier if your steps were each on their own line.

Thanks :) I am new so I didnt know that
 
PeroK said:
Somewhere in the middle of that muddle you got the integral down to 1/cos(t), which is sec(t). Why not google for "integral sec" and see what comes up?

THANK YOUUU A LOT you gave me an idea :D
 

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