Integrating Sin(\phi)Cos(\phi): A Step-By-Step Guide

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the integration of the function sin(φ)cos(φ) using u-substitution and trigonometric identities. The key identity used is sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x), which simplifies the integral to (1/2)∫sin(2x)dx. Participants emphasize the importance of recognizing derivatives, such as dU = cos(x)dx when substituting U = sin(x). The conversation highlights the effectiveness of u-substitution in solving integrals involving products of sine and cosine functions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts, particularly integration.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities, specifically sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x).
  • Knowledge of u-substitution technique in integration.
  • Ability to differentiate basic trigonometric functions, such as sin(x) and cos(x).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of u-substitution in greater detail.
  • Practice integrating trigonometric functions using identities.
  • Learn about the properties of definite and indefinite integrals.
  • Explore advanced integration techniques, such as integration by parts.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those struggling with integration techniques, as well as educators looking for effective methods to teach trigonometric integration.

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Homework Statement


I'm actually in the middle of a multivariable question, and I am stuck because I don't remember how to integrate sin(\phi)cos(\phi) .


The Attempt at a Solution


I have an understanding of the material, but I can't remember how to integrate this. Someone please refresh my memory :) . I would appreciate some kind of step by step integration, so if this was on the test I would understand how to do it.
 
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What is the derivative of sin? Do you remember substitutions?
 
The derivative of sin(x) is cos(x), and I do remember substitutions, but I don't know what to substitute, because I can't remember any identities for sin or cos with a power of 1.
 
Do you remember substituting for U then finding the dU, which is the derivative of the U, then making substitutions to the original integral to change the integral interms of the variable U? Make U=sin(x), then what is dU?
 
That is so weird. I didnt even think about that. Can you explain why that works, but the integral of sin(x) by itself is -cos(x)? (if your answer is 'it just is' that is perfectly fine). I thought of u substitution--I was thinking that it wouldn't work.
 
maybe this will make it easier

sin{2x}=2sin{x}cos{x}

\int\sin{x}cos{x}dx

so

\frac{1}{2}\int\sin{2x}dx
 
jedjj said:
That is so weird. I didnt even think about that. Can you explain why that works, but the integral of sin(x) by itself is -cos(x)? (if your answer is 'it just is' that is perfectly fine). I thought of u substitution--I was thinking that it wouldn't work.

messed up with my latex, still trying to get the hang of it.
 
Last edited:
jedjj said:
That is so weird. I didnt even think about that. Can you explain why that works, but the integral of sin(x) by itself is -cos(x)? (if your answer is 'it just is' that is perfectly fine). I thought of u substitution--I was thinking that it wouldn't work.

Let U=sinx

then, dU=cosxdx

so if you substitute thes identities to the original equation:
\intUdU

Can you integrate that? Then sub it back in with the same identities after you integrate
 
I think rocophysic's method is simpler, since it does not involve any substitutions.
 

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