How to Integrate Partial Fraction Problems without a Prefix

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The discussion focuses on integrating the expression ∫(8x² + 5x + 8)/(x³ - 1) using partial fractions. The denominator is factored into (x - 1)(x² + x + 1), leading to the setup of partial fractions with constants A, B, and C. The user successfully determines A, B, and C, resulting in the integral split into two parts: 7∫(dx/(x - 1)) and ∫((x - 1)/(x² + x + 1))dx. The challenge arises with the second integral, where a suggestion is made to rewrite x - 1 in terms of a u substitution, leading to a solution involving inverse tangent after completing the square. The discussion concludes with the user acknowledging the usefulness of the advice and the need for further practice.
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Homework Statement



\int\frac{8x^{2}+5x+8}{x^{3}-1}

Homework Equations



Because the denominator can be reduced to (x-1)(x^{2}+x+1), I set up the partial fractions to be \frac{A}{(x-1)} + \frac{Bx+C}{(x^{2}+x+1)}

The Attempt at a Solution



I've solved for A, B, and C, and now have the integral set up as such:

7\int\frac{dx}{x-1} + \int\frac{x-1}{x^{2}+x+1}dx

Where A is 7, B is 1, and C is -1

I can integrate the first term simply, but I'm having trouble figuring out how to integrate the second term. The best I can think of is a u substitution, but du turns into 2x+1 dx, which is nothing like x-1 dx. Any suggestions?
 
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Youngster said:

Homework Statement



\int\frac{8x^{2}+5x+8}{x^{3}-1}

Homework Equations



Because the denominator can be reduced to (x-1)(x^{2}+x+1), I set up the partial fractions to be \frac{A}{(x-1)} + \frac{Bx+C}{(x^{2}+x+1)}

The Attempt at a Solution



I've solved for A, B, and C, and now have the integral set up as such:

7\int\frac{dx}{x-1} + \int\frac{x-1}{x^{2}+x+1}dx

Where A is 7, B is 1, and C is -1

I can integrate the first term simply, but I'm having trouble figuring out how to integrate the second term. The best I can think of is a u substitution, but du turns into 2x+1 dx, which is nothing like x-1 dx. Any suggestions?

Write x-1=(1/2)*(2x+1)-3/2. Now you can easily do the 2x+1 part. The -3/2 part is harder. You'll need to complete the square in the denominator and do a trig substitution.
 
Complete the square on the other integral. I believe you'll get an arctan in the solution.
 
Ah, I see now. It's been a while since I've done that, but it works. I suppose I should do similar exercises to get this in my head.

And yeah, part of the integral turned out to be an inverse tangent one. Thanks a lot.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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