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

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster is working on a multivariable calculus problem involving the integration of sin(φ)cos(φ). They express difficulty recalling the integration process and seek a step-by-step guide to understand it better.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the derivative of sin and the use of substitutions in integration. There are questions about appropriate substitutions and identities related to sin and cos. Some suggest using the identity sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x) to simplify the integral.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different methods of integration and questioning the reasoning behind certain approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding substitutions and identities, but there is no explicit consensus on the best method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention challenges with LaTeX formatting and express uncertainty about the effectiveness of u-substitution in this context.

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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 [tex]sin(\phi)cos(\phi)[/tex] .


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

[tex]sin{2x}=2sin{x}cos{x}[/tex]

[tex]\int\sin{x}cos{x}dx[/tex]

so

[tex]\frac{1}{2}\int\sin{2x}dx[/tex]
 
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:
[tex]\int[/tex]UdU

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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