Integrating sqrt(1+4x^2) from x = 0 to x = 1: A Step-by-Step Solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of the function sqrt(1+4x^2) from x = 0 to x = 1. Participants are exploring the steps involved in the integration process and identifying potential errors in the calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the substitution of variables, specifically using 2x = sinh(u), and the subsequent integration steps. There are questions regarding the arithmetic involved in simplifying the integral and the correct application of limits. Some participants express confusion about specific terms in the integration process and seek clarification on potential mistakes.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing examination of the integration steps, with participants pointing out possible arithmetic errors in the original poster's calculations. Guidance has been offered regarding the simplification of terms, though no consensus has been reached on the final outcome.

Contextual Notes

Participants are reflecting on common mistakes in mathematical reasoning and the importance of careful calculation, indicating a supportive environment for learning from errors.

applestrudle
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Homework Statement



Integrate sqrt(1+4x^2)

limits x = 0 to x = 1

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



let 2x = sinhu

I = 0.5 ∫ (coshu)^2du

limits u = 0 u = sinh^-1(2)

0.5 ∫ (e^2u +e^-2u +2)/4 du

0.5 [(e^2u)/8 -(e^-2u)/8 +2u]

I = 2.56 which is wrong :(

why is it wrong?

please help!
 
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applestrudle said:

Homework Statement



Integrate sqrt(1+4x^2)

limits x = 0 to x = 1

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



let 2x = sinhu

I = 0.5 ∫ (coshu)^2du

limits u = 0 u = sinh^-1(2)

0.5 ∫ (e^2u +e^-2u +2)/4 du

0.5 [(e^2u)/8 -(e^-2u)/8 +2u]

I = 2.56 which is wrong :(

why is it wrong?

please help!

Well, for one thing 0.5 ∫ (e^2u +e^-2u +2)/4 du becomes
0.5 [(e^2u)/8 -(e^-2u)/8 +u/2]. Did you forget to divide the last term by 4?
 
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You started out well. I think you made an arithmetic mistake when you multiplied your expression through by .5 -- you got ##e^{2u}/8 + e^{-2u}/8 +2u##. Where did you get 2u. Shouldn't it be u/4?
 
what a silly mistake, i feel embarrassed :S
 
I recently wrote that 25 is divisible by 3. And just a few months ago based a proof on the non-fact that 10 is prime. Talk about embarrassed. Losing a factor of 4 is much more understandable.

We cannot escape these boneheaded errors.
 

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