Integrate $\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} dx$ from 0 to 1

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The integral of \(\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} dx\) from 0 to 1 presents challenges with integration by parts, particularly in the choice of \(u\) and \(dv\). Some users suggest using a change of variables or trigonometric substitution, such as \(x = \tan(\theta)\), which simplifies the integration process. There is a consensus that integration by parts can work, but it requires a proper understanding of differentiation and integration techniques. The original poster eventually found success with trigonometric substitution, highlighting the importance of exploring multiple methods in calculus. Understanding the reasoning behind integration techniques is emphasized as valuable for learning.
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Homework Statement


find the definite integral \int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} dx from 0 to 1

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


This problem is in the integration by parts section .. I chose u = x^3 , and dv=\frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} so v = \frac{x^4}{4} and du = -(x^2 + 1)^(\frac{-3}{2}) , so the integral is equal to \frac{x^4}{4} . \frac{1}{√x^2 + 1} - \int\frac{x^4}{4} . -(x^2 + 1)^(\frac{-3}{2}) .. and my problem is the integral on the right hand side of the equation; I don't know how to integrate it and I don't know whether if I've chosen the parts correctly or there is a better way of choosing the parts
 
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How about first doing a change of variables s=x2. Now ds=2xdx and the integrand simplifies considerably.
 
If the change of variable doesn't float your boat, you could use a trig substitution of ##x = atanθ##.
 
It isn't the easiest way to work the problem, but if you really want to use integration by parts, try$$
u = x^2,\,dv=\frac x {\sqrt{x^2+1}}$$
 
In the OP, if u = x^3, then du = 3x^2 dx, not that weird expression. This is basic differentiation.

And if dv = dx/SQRT(x^2+1), then v certainly is not equal to (1/4)*x^4.

You should review the formulas for derivatives and simple integrals.
 
Zerkor said:

Homework Statement


find the definite integral \int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} dx from 0 to 1


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


This problem is in the integration by parts section .. I chose u = x^3 , and dv=\frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2 + 1}} so v = \frac{x^4}{4} and du = -(x^2 + 1)^(\frac{-3}{2}
You have "u" and "v" confused. With u= x^3, du= 3x^2dx- you differentiated v. With dv= \frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2+ 1}}, v= arctan(x)- you integrated u.

, so the integral is equal to \frac{x^4}{4} . \frac{1}{√x^2 + 1} - \int\frac{x^4}{4} . -(x^2 + 1)^(\frac{-3}{2}) .. and my problem is the integral on the right hand side of the equation; I don't know how to integrate it and I don't know whether if I've chosen the parts correctly or there is a better way of choosing the parts
 
A one solve the definite integral

∫x2/√x2+1 dx={z=x2+1,dz=2*x*dx}=
∫(z-1)/(2√z) dz=1/3*z3/2-√z={x=0⇔z=1,x=1⇔z=2}=(2-√2)/3
 
All these responses and suggestions, and Zerkor never returned to his thread. :frown:
 
LCKurtz said:
It isn't the easiest way to work the problem, but if you really want to use integration by parts, try$$
u = x^2,\,dv=\frac x {\sqrt{x^2+1}}$$

I tried this one and it didn't work .. In the sections I've studied in the previous two days I learned trigonometric substitution and miscellaneous substitution; I think I have to try working this problem with those techniques
 
  • #10
Thanks a lot guys for your help and I'm sorry for replying after a long period but I didn't access the forum through those two days :)
 
  • #11
Without showing your work, we can't say why integration by parts didn't work for you, except you must have made a mistake. IBP does work for this integral, but your earlier postings show that you do not have a grasp on how to apply it correctly.
 
  • #12
SteamKing said:
Without showing your work, we can't say why integration by parts didn't work for you, except you must have made a mistake. IBP does work for this integral, but your earlier postings show that you do not have a grasp on how to apply it correctly.

May be you are right. But I've just worked it using trigonometric substitution using x = tanθ and it worked correctly .. Maybe there exist a way to find it using IBP but it's a hard way and there is no use for it if there is an easier way :)
 
  • #13
Zerkor said:
May be you are right. But I've just worked it using trigonometric substitution using x = tanθ and it worked correctly .. Maybe there exist a way to find it using IBP but it's a hard way and there is no use for it if there is an easier way :)

But since you are learning calculus, don't you think it might be of some value to figure out why it's not working for you?
 

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