How do I solve this odd power of sine integral problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral of the function involving powers of sine and cosine, specifically the integral of \((\sin(x))^2(\cos(x))^3\). Participants are exploring various approaches to simplify and solve this integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss separating the powers of cosine and applying trigonometric identities. There are questions about the correct formulation of the integral and the implications of changing between sine and cosine. Some suggest using reduction formulas or double angle identities as potential methods for integration.

Discussion Status

There is an active exploration of different methods to approach the integral, with participants providing insights and suggestions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of identities and substitutions, but no consensus has been reached on a definitive solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through potential errors in the formulation of the integral and the implications of using different trigonometric identities. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity involved in integrating powers of sine and cosine.

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Homework Statement



Integral((sin(x))^2((cos(x))^2) dx


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



separate Cos (x)^3

sin(x)^2 (cos(x))(cos(x))^3

Then:apply identities

sin(x)^2(cos(x))(1-sin(x)^2)


And now I am lost!:eek:



Thanks a lot!
 
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Is that supposed to be (cosx)^4 or something (unless you divide by cos as well, you cannot have a cos^3 out of cos^2)?

The way I would do this is to use the identity that sin^2 x is 1 - cos^2 x, and then you can integrate cos^n x with a reduction formula or double angle identities.

Or you could start off with double angle identities and see where it leads you.
 
Yea Sorry I screwed that up the original integral is
Integral((sin(x))^2((cos(x))^3) dx


Then
separate Cos (x)^3

sin(x)^2 (cos(x))(cos(x))^2

Then:apply identities

sin(x)^2(cos(x))(1-sin(x)^2)

So now If I change the sin(x)^2 to 1-cos(x)^2 I won't have dx just as if I change it back?
 
(sinx)^2 = 1-(cosx)^2
so...

Int((sin(x))^2((cos(x))^3) dx
=Int[(cosx)^3(1-(cosx)^2)]dx
=Int[(cosx)^3 - (cosx)^5]dx
= -(cosx)^4/4sinx + (cosx)^6/6sinx

Right?
 
Last edited:
I would stick with changing cosine to sin. Then you get
[tex]\int sin^2(x)cos(x)dx -\int sin^4(x)cos(x)dx[/tex]

A discerning eye will note a great substitution there
 
Perhaps you should try using

[itex]\sin (2x) = 2 \sin (x) \cos (x)[/itex]

edit: sorry, didn't see the new problem
 
Ok here's my shot at this one at 6:40 AM :bugeye:

so it becomes

[tex]\int sin^2(x)cos(x)dx -\int sin^4(x)cos(x)dx[/tex]

by using 1-sin(x)^2

So I make u sin(x)
du cos(x)

Therefore I get (sin(x)^3)/3-(sin(x)^5)/5

That sound about right?

Thanks,
Andy
 
Looks good to me
 

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