Integrating a Tricky Rational Function with Substitution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the integral \(\int_0^{\infty} \frac{dx}{a^2 + \left(x - \frac{1}{x}\right)^2}\) for \(a \geq 2\). Participants suggest using the substitution \(x = \frac{1}{t}\) to simplify the integral. An alternative approach involves expanding the denominator and manipulating the numerator to facilitate integration. The key takeaway is that strategic substitutions and algebraic manipulation are essential for tackling complex rational functions in calculus.

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utkarshakash
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Homework Statement


[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{dx}{a^2 + \left(x-\frac{1}{x} \right)^2}[/itex] a>=2


The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{x^2 dx}{x^2a^2 + (x^2-1)^2}[/itex]
 
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utkarshakash said:

Homework Statement


[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{dx}{a^2 + \left(x-\frac{1}{x} \right)^2}[/itex] a>=2


The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{x^2 dx}{x^2a^2 + (x^2-1)^2}[/itex]

Put ##\displaystyle x=\frac{1}{t}## in the given integral. :wink:
 
utkarshakash said:

Homework Statement


[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{dx}{a^2 + \left(x-\frac{1}{x} \right)^2}[/itex] a>=2


The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\displaystyle \int^∞_0 \dfrac{x^2 dx}{x^2a^2 + (x^2-1)^2}[/itex]

Not sure about Pranav's hint but here is how I would have done it:

Making a tricky substitution of,

1/t = x-1/x

OR

In your attempt at solution, expand the denominator, then write numerator as x2-1+1, break the denominator, then in each integrand, divide both sides by x2, try making the denominator the perfect square, then in term like Y2 in the denominator, let Y=t...etc..
 

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