How do I solve the trigonometric integral of f(x)=cotx+tanx?

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SUMMARY

The integral of the function f(x) = cot(x) + tan(x) can be solved by first expanding [f(x)]^2, leading to the expression tan^2(x) + cot^2(x) + 2. Utilizing the identities cot^2(x) + 1 = csc^2(x) and tan^2(x) + 1 = sec^2(x) simplifies the integral to ∫(sec^2(x) + csc^2(x))dx. The final result of the integral is tan(x) - cot(x) + C, where C is the constant of integration.

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  • Proficiency in manipulating algebraic expressions involving trigonometric functions.
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Part 2, leading on from https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=315803"

Homework Statement


Given [itex]f(x)=cotx+tanx[/itex] find
[tex]\int{[f(x)]^2}dx[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I've attempted many different varieties of approaches to the problem. Trying to use the substitution method for sinx, cosx, tanx... and a few others... re-arranging the function, trying to get it into a more convenient form... trying to use some of the ideas given in the first thread... No luck.

Basically, it has all been a bunch of guessing and hoping something useful will appear. Plus another bunch of frustration on my part, but I won't get into the details of that xD
 
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Expand out [f(x)]^2

use [itex]cot^2x+1=cosec^2x[/itex] and [itex]tan^2x+1=sec^2x[/itex]
 
Thanks rockfreak :smile:

It turns out to be tanx-cotx. I also obtained [itex]\int{sec^2x+cosec^2x}dx[/itex] through another longer method but it strike me at that moment that I can take the integral of each of these. (I think I'll keep my standard integral formulas close-by next time).

Thanks again.
 

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