Integrate x/(x+1)^1/2

1. Feb 1, 2009

mcelgiraffe

Hi,

I am trying to work a problem that seems to have me stumped.

∫x/√(x+1) dx

I have tried to look at it as a right triangle with:
hypotenouse = √(x+1)
sideA = 1
sideB = √x

So I have:
cot^2 ∅=x, dx=-2cot∅csc^2 ∅ d∅
csc∅=√(x+1)

Working through the problem I have
-2∫(cot^2 ∅/csc∅) * cot∅csc^2 ∅ d∅
-2∫cot^3 ∅ * csc∅ d∅
-2∫(cos^3 ∅/sin^3 ∅) * (1/sin∅) d∅
-2∫cos^3 ∅/sin^4 ∅ d∅

Trying to solve it from here using more identities just keeps getting messier and I don't seem to be making any progress.

So, my main question is "am I on the right track?" or "is there an easier way that I am overlooking?"

Thank You,

James

2. Feb 1, 2009

Dick

There's a way easier route. Try the substitution u=x+1. x=u-1. The triangles aren't helping at all.

3. Feb 1, 2009

4. Feb 1, 2009

mcelgiraffe

I am not sure how I made it that difficult except that I have been staring at this way too long today. Dicks method was much easier and greatly appreciated. Thanks to both of you.

James