Integral Help: Solve \frac {2(1+x)} {1-2x-x^2} dx

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral of the function \(-\int \frac {2(1+x)} {1-2x-x^2} dx\), which falls under the subject area of calculus, specifically integration techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to factor the denominator and simplify the integral but encounters difficulties. Some participants suggest trying substitution methods, while others propose completing the square or polynomial long division as alternative approaches.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering various suggestions and methods for tackling the integral. There is no explicit consensus on a single approach, but multiple lines of reasoning are being explored, indicating a productive exchange of ideas.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework rules and are questioning the effectiveness of their chosen substitutions and methods. There is an acknowledgment of potential missing information or assumptions that may affect the problem-solving process.

Sparky_
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Greetings

Can you help with the following integral:

[tex]-\int \frac {2(1+x)} {1-2x-x^2} dx[/tex]

I'm reasonably sure my setup is correct up to this integral. I tried to factor and do some canceling. - no luck'

thoughts and direction

Thanks
-Sparky-
 
Last edited:
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Have you tried substitution?
 
Put, x^2+2x-1=z
 
AHHH! thanks -

[tex]u = (1-2x-x^2)[/tex]
[tex]du = -2 - 2x dx[/tex]
[tex]dx = \frac {du} {-2(1+x)}[/tex]
[tex]-\int \frac {-du} {u}[/tex]

[tex]= ln(1-2x-x^2)[/tex]

This solution is in the exponent of "e"

and leads to the integral below.
Question: can you suggest a start for:

[tex]\int \frac {1-2x-x^2} {(x+1)^2} dx[/tex]

I've tried various substitutions again and don't see it.

I've tried [tex]u = -x^2 - 2x[/tex]
[tex]du = -2x - 2 dx[/tex]
or
[tex](-2(x+1) )dx[/tex]
[tex]dx = \frac {du} {-2(x+1)}[/tex]

leaves me with a (x+1) term

thanks
Sparky_
 
Last edited:
Note that [tex]1-2x-x^2 = -(x+1)^2 + 2[/tex].

Now separate, and integrate.

This is completing the square. Also you could multiply the bottom out and long divide to get a similar result.
 

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