Integrating ln(x+1)/(x^2+1) using recursive integration by parts

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The integral ∫ln(x+1)/(x^2+1)dx cannot be expressed using a finite combination of standard functions. The discussion highlights the use of recursive integration by parts, setting u=ln(x+1) and dv=1/(x^2+1)dx, leading to a complex expression involving ArcTan(x). Despite attempts to simplify the integral, it ultimately requires special functions, specifically polylogarithms, for a closed form. Specifying limits of integration may allow for a finite representation in certain cases.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integration techniques, specifically integration by parts
  • Familiarity with logarithmic and trigonometric functions, particularly ln(x) and ArcTan(x)
  • Knowledge of special functions, including polylogarithms
  • Basic calculus concepts, including indefinite integrals and limits of integration
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and applications of polylogarithmic functions
  • Study advanced integration techniques, focusing on recursive integration by parts
  • Explore the use of special functions in calculus, particularly in relation to integrals
  • Investigate specific cases where limits of integration allow for finite representations of complex integrals
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, calculus students, and anyone interested in advanced integration techniques and the application of special functions in solving complex integrals.

OrangeJuggler
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hi, I need to find ∫ln(x+1)/(x^2+1)dx

I think it might involve recursive integration by parts, so first I set:

u=ln(x+1) dv = 1/(x^2+1)dx
du=1/(x+1)dx v=ArcTan(x)

∫ln(x+1)/(x^2+1)dx = ArcTan(x)Ln(x+1) - ∫ArcTan(x)/(x+1)dx

Then I integrated by parts again, so

u=1/(x+1) dv=ArcTan(x)
du=-1/(x+1)^2dx v=x*ArcTan(x)-Ln(x^2+1)/(x+1)

∫Ln(x+1)/(x^2+1)dx = ArcTan(x)Ln(x+1) -1/(x+1)(x*ArcTan(x)-Ln(x^2+1)/2)+∫x*ArcTan(x)/(x+1)^2-Ln(x^2+1)/(2(x+1)^2)

my problem here is that neither my ArcTan term nor my natural log term that I'm attempting to integrate can be rewritten in terms of either of the two previous integrals I've done. I have the natural log of (x^2+1) instead of (x+1) and my ArcTan term is divided by (x+1)^2 rather than (x+1). So I guess I could continue integration by parts, but that's just getting real ugly real fast. Any ideas?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi,
This indefinite integral cannot be expressed with a combination of a finite number of the usual functions. A formal expression (a closed form) of the integral involves special functions of the polylogarithm kind.
Nevertheless, il the limits of integration were specified, in some particular cases it might be possible to express the integral as a combination of a finite number of the usual functions.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K