How to Solve Basic Integration Problems Using Substitution and Partial Fractions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the integral ∫(√x)^5/((√x)^7+x^6) dx, focusing on techniques such as substitution and partial fractions within the context of integration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial attempt to simplify the integral by factoring out (√x)^5 and consider substitution methods. There are questions about the effectiveness of trigonometric substitutions and the complexity introduced by the proposed substitutions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested that the substitution method should work, and there is mention of using partial fractions as a standard approach following substitution. The discussion reflects a mix of attempts and suggestions without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the exercise is intended to utilize specific integration techniques learned previously, which may influence their approach to solving the problem.

Krushnaraj Pandya
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Homework Statement


∫(√x)^5/((√x)^7+x^6) dx

Homework Equations


I have learned integration through substitution, trigonometric identities and standard integrals

The Attempt at a Solution


I took (√x)^5 common which gave 1/(x+√x^7), Then I tried to substitute √x=t, √x^7=t but it just seems to complicate things more, I don't see any fruitful trigonometric substitutions either- would be grateful if someone can tell me how to proceed
 
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Krushnaraj Pandya said:

Homework Statement


∫(√x)^5/((√x)^7+x^6) dx

Homework Equations


I have learned integration through substitution, trigonometric identities and standard integrals

The Attempt at a Solution


I took (√x)^5 common which gave 1/(x+√x^7), Then I tried to substitute √x=t, √x^7=t but it just seems to complicate things more, I don't see any fruitful trigonometric substitutions either- would be grateful if someone can tell me how to proceed
Your substitution should work.
##t = x^{1/2} \Rightarrow t^2 = x \Rightarrow 2tdt = dx##
After you make the substitution, you should get an integral that you can evaluate using partial fractions.
 
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Mark44 said:
Your substitution should work.
##t = x^{1/2} \Rightarrow t^2 = x \Rightarrow 2tdt = dx##
After you make the substitution, you should get an integral that you can evaluate using partial fractions.
The exercise in my textbook is supposed to be using the concepts I mentioned under relevant equations, therefore I need to solve it using that
 
Krushnaraj Pandya said:
The exercise in my textbook is supposed to be using the concepts I mentioned under relevant equations, therefore I need to solve it using that

Mark44 IS suggesting a method on your list---substitution. After that, partial fractions are a 100% standard method, and anybody who tells you you cannot use them is doing you a dis-service. Some integrals just cannot be done in any other way (except, maybe, by finding them in some "tables of integrals" somewhere).
 
Ray Vickson said:
Mark44 IS suggesting a method on your list---substitution. After that, partial fractions are a 100% standard method, and anybody who tells you you cannot use them is doing you a dis-service. Some integrals just cannot be done in any other way (except, maybe, by finding them in some "tables of integrals" somewhere).
ohh...ok, I'll use that then and see if I can solve it
 
Ray Vickson said:
Mark44 IS suggesting a method on your list---substitution. After that, partial fractions are a 100% standard method, and anybody who tells you you cannot use them is doing you a dis-service. Some integrals just cannot be done in any other way (except, maybe, by finding them in some "tables of integrals" somewhere).
I got the correct answer. Thanks a lot!
 

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