Integration by completing the square

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on integrating the function 1/(x^2 + 4x + 5) by completing the square. The expression is rewritten as 1/((x + 2)^2 + 1), which simplifies the integration process. Participants clarify the correct interpretation of the problem, emphasizing the need for the integral formula for 1/(x^2 + a^2). The conversation highlights the importance of correctly identifying the function to be integrated. Understanding the completed square form is essential for applying the appropriate integration techniques.
luigihs
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1/x^2 + 4x + 5



1) Completing the square
x^2 + 4x/2 + 5 - 4
(x+2)^2 +1

After this I know what to do??
 
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luigihs said:
1/x^2 + 4x + 5
1) Completing the square
x^2 + 4x/2 + 5 - 4
(x+2)^2 +1

After this I know what to do??
What's your question? You're asking about an integration problem - what is the problem?

x2 + 4x + 5 = x2 + 4x + 4 + 1 = (x + 2)2 + 1
 
What you wrote is
\frac{1}{x^2}+ 4x+ 5
but I feel sure you meant
\frac{1}{x^2+ 4x+ 5}= \frac{1}{(x+2)^2+ 1}

Now, do you know an integral formula for
\int \frac{dx}{x^2+a^2}?
 
I misread that 1/ part as "problem #1". Didn't occur to me that he meant the reciprocal of something.
 
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