Indefinite Integration by u-sub/trig sub

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves integrating the function (x^3)sqrt(1-x^2), which falls under the topic of indefinite integration, specifically utilizing techniques such as u-substitution and trigonometric substitution.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various substitution methods, including u=1-x^2 and x=sin(theta). Some express uncertainty about the appropriateness of integration by parts.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided different substitution strategies and shared their attempts at solving the integral. There is a recognition of the complexity of the problem, with some participants noting the challenges posed by the radical in the numerator. No explicit consensus has been reached, but multiple lines of reasoning are being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential restriction on using integration by parts, and some participants question the assumptions underlying the problem setup.

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Homework Statement


Integrate (x^3)sqrt(1-x^2)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I used trig. substitution along with u substitution and came up with (x^4)/4 +C which I know is wrong. My professor gave the answer -(((3x^2)+2)((1-x^2)^(3/2)))/15 . Please help!
 
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Homework Statement


Integrate (x^3)sqrt(1-x^2)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I used trig. substitution along with u substitution and came up with (x^4)/4 +C which I know is wrong. My professor gave the answer -(((3x^2)+2)((1-x^2)^(3/2)))/15 . Please help!
 
Is there a special restriction in the question that says you can't use integration by parts?
 
The substitution you want is u=1-x^2. One x from the x^3 will then be used to create the du leaving x^2 but then you'll remember that x^2=1-u. Try it, you'll like it!
 
Which substitution? x=sin theta should work fine.
 
Ok I worked through it for you.
[tex]\int \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx[/tex]
x=sin theta
dx=cos theta d(theta)
[tex]\int \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx = \int \sin^3 \theta d\theta[/tex]
[tex]=\int \sin^2 \theta \cdot \sin \theta d\theta = \int (1-\cos^2 \theta)\sin \theta d\theta = \int \sin \theta d\theta - \int \cos^2 \theta \sin \theta d\theta[/tex]

First integral is just -cos theta, 2nd integral is simple with u=cos theta. Easy as pi.
 
Yep - I get the Prof's result too.

First substitution: [tex]u= x^2[/tex]

Second substition: let [tex]v^2 = 1-u[/tex]

You should wind up with an integral of:

I = [tex]\int (v^4-v^2) dv[/tex]
 
Last edited:
Gib Z said:
Ok I worked through it for you.
[tex]\int \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx[/tex]
x=sin theta
dx=cos theta d(theta)
[tex]\int \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx = \int \sin^3 \theta d\theta[/tex]
[tex]=\int \sin^2 \theta \cdot \sin \theta d\theta = \int (1-\cos^2 \theta)\sin \theta d\theta = \int \sin \theta d\theta - \int \cos^2 \theta \sin \theta d\theta[/tex]

First integral is just -cos theta, 2nd integral is simple with u=cos theta. Easy as pi.
Only if it were that simple. The radical is in the numerator. :wink:
 
I can't read. Kill me. I'll get another solution for you tomorrow then, for the right problem :P
 
  • #10
Ok actually no problem either way.
Same substitution, x=sin theta
dx= cos theta d(theta)

[tex]\int x^3 \sqrt{1-x^2} dx = \int \sin^3 \theta \cos^2 \theta d\theta = \int \sin \theta (1-\cos^2 \theta)\cos^2 \theta d\theta = \int (\cos^2 \theta - \cos^4 \theta) \sin \theta d\theta[/tex] Which is very simple with the easy substitution, u=cos x.

EDIT: Rewritten in the form [tex]\int (\cos^4 \theta - \cos^2 \theta) (-\sin \theta) d\theta[/tex] it becomes what TheoMcCloskey said it would be.
 
Last edited:
  • #11
But as Dick and ThomasMcCloskey (indirectly) said, The substitution u= 1-x2 is simpler.
 

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