Integrate 1/(1+e^x) dx: Solving the Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves integrating the function 1/(1+e^x) with respect to x. Participants are exploring various substitution methods and transformations to approach the integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts a substitution with t=1+e^x, leading to an integration involving t. Some participants question the validity of this substitution and suggest alternative methods, such as multiplying by e^{-x} and using a different variable substitution. Others point out potential errors in the transformation process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's approach. Some guidance has been offered regarding the substitution and integration process, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct method or outcome yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are addressing potential errors in the substitution and integration steps, indicating a need for clarity on the transformation of variables and the resulting expressions. There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct application of integration techniques without resolving the problem itself.

cloveryeah
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Homework Statement


integrate 1/(1+e^x) dx

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


firstly i let t=1+e^x
and then i come to : integrate 1/(t^2-1)
and then i put t=secx
.
.
.
but then the final ans is -1/2 ln | 2/e^x +1 |

it should be 1 instead of 2, i hv checked for the steps for so many times, but found nothing wrong
 
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You have done the substitution wrong.

If t= 1+ e^x then dt= e^xdx= (t- 1)dx so that \frac{1}{t- 1}= dx.

\int \frac{1}{1+ e^x}dx= \int \frac{1}{t} \frac{dt}{t- 1}= \int \frac{1}{t(t- 1)} dt

NOT \int \frac{1}{t^2- 1} dt
 
Perhaps you should multiply the top and bottom of the expression by ##e^{-x}## and see what happens when you substitute ##u = e^{-x}##.
 
HallsofIvy said:
You have done the substitution wrong.

If t= 1+ e^x then dt= e^xdx= (t- 1)dx so that \frac{1}{t- 1}= dx.

\int \frac{1}{1+ e^x}dx= \int \frac{1}{t} \frac{dt}{t- 1}= \int \frac{1}{t(t- 1)} dt

NOT \int \frac{1}{t^2- 1} dt
then you can use partial fraction i.e. create (t)- (t-1) in the numerator
 

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