The problem involves evaluating the integral of cos²(x) using two different methods. The subject area is calculus, specifically focusing on integration techniques.
The discussion includes attempts to clarify the methods for integrating cos²(x). Some participants express confusion about the application of integration by parts, while others indicate that it can be used effectively with the right approach. There is a sense of progress as one participant reports understanding after receiving input.
There is mention of the need to use trigonometric identities effectively, and some participants are exploring the limitations of their current methods. The original poster seeks two distinct methods for the integration task.
henryc09 said:I have done it making the substitution of cos^2(x) = (1 + cos(2x))/2 but don't see how you can do this another way. Integration by parts doesn't seem to work and nor does substitution as far as I'm aware. Any ideas?