# Integrating 1/(4+x^2)^2 dx

I'm supposed to be Integrating 1/(4+x^2)^2 dx using trigonometric substitutions, but I do not know how to get started with this one.

Am I supposed to rewrite this as 1/sqrt((4+x^2)^2) and then use the reference triangle? I've tried expanding the bottom, but that does'nt get me anywhere.

Any help, please. I don't want the answer, I just want the first step to get this started.
Thanks

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tiny-tim
Homework Helper
Welcome to PF!

Hi oexnorth! Welcome to PF!
I'm supposed to be Integrating 1/(4+x^2)^2 dx using trigonometric substitutions, but I do not know how to get started with this one.
With (a2 - x2), use sine or cosine.

With (x2 - a2), use sec or cosec.

With (a2 + x2), use tan or cot.

So would x=2sqrt(tan(theta))? Sorry, but the square instead of the square root in the problem is throwing me off.

Mentallic
Homework Helper
Yes exactly.
You're using the fact that $$1+tan^2\theta=sec^2\theta$$
so I'm sure you can see where this is heading.

p.s. do not start throwing in square roots. That is an invalid move, and makes the problem boring now with the invention of the standard integrals and all

Definitely. Thank you both.

tiny-tim
Homework Helper
(have a theta: θ )
So would x=2sqrt(tan(theta))? Sorry, but the square instead of the square root in the problem is throwing me off.
eugh :yuck: … you can use √tan, but it's easy to make a mistake if you choose anything complicated …

I'd strongly recommend sticking to the simplest possible substitution, in this case just tan.

Ok, after repeated workings and reworkings, I've come up with:

(1/16)arctan(x/2)+x/8(4+x^2)

Can anyone verify this? Thanks.

Mark44
Mentor
You can verify that it's correct by differenting. If you answer is correct, it should be that d/dx[1/16*arctan(x/2) + 1/8*x(x^2 + 4)] = 1/(x^2 + 4)^2.

Whatever your answer turns out to be, don't forget the constant of integration.