Integration by partial fraction problem (∫dx/x(x^2 + 4)^2)

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SUMMARY

The integral ∫dx/x(x^2 + 4)^2 can be solved using partial fraction decomposition. The correct setup involves expressing the integrand as A/x + (Bx+C)/(x^2 + 4) + (Dx+E)/(x^2 + 4)^2. After proper expansion and solving for coefficients, the values are determined as A=1/16, B=-1/16, C=0, D=-1/4, and E=0. This method simplifies the integration process significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial fraction decomposition
  • Familiarity with integration techniques
  • Knowledge of polynomial expressions and their manipulation
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of partial fraction decomposition in detail
  • Learn about integration techniques for rational functions
  • Explore substitution methods in integration, such as u-substitution
  • Practice solving integrals involving higher powers of polynomials
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on integration techniques, as well as educators looking for examples of partial fraction decomposition in action.

Bimpo
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Homework Statement



I came across a problem that I can't solve
and it is ∫dx/x(x^2 + 4)^2

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution


So I'm pretty sure this is to be solved by partial fraction since I am on a chapter on
Integration by partial fraction.

so I started with A/x + (Bx+C/x^2+4) + [Dx+E/(x^2 +4)^2]

and I get a reeeeaallllyy loooonnngg equation once I go around that
Am I on the right track? Or did I make a mistake? is this even to be solved by partial fraction?
 
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First rewrite as \int\frac{1}{x(x^2 + 4)^2} dx

Then turn into partial fractions (lets ignore the integral part for now and focus on the fraction): \frac{A}{x} + \frac{B}{(x^2 + 4)^2} = \frac{1}{x(x^2 + 4)^2}

A (x^2 + 4)^2 + Bx = 1

Solve for A and B and plug back in.
 
Last edited:
Bimpo said:

Homework Statement



I came across a problem that I can't solve
and it is ∫dx/x(x^2 + 4)^2

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution


So I'm pretty sure this is to be solved by partial fraction since I am on a chapter on
Integration by partial fraction.

so I started with A/x + (Bx+C/x^2+4) + [Dx+E/(x^2 +4)^2]

and I get a reeeeaallllyy loooonnngg equation once I go around that
Am I on the right track? Or did I make a mistake? is this even to be solved by partial fraction?
First try the substitution u = x2 .

You will still get to work with partial fractions, but they won't be quite as complicated.

I assume your problem is actually \displaystyle \int\ \frac{dx}{x(x^2+4)^2}\,.

Parentheses are important.
 
Bimpo said:
so I started with A/x + (Bx+C/x^2+4) + [Dx+E/(x^2 +4)^2]

and I get a reeeeaallllyy loooonnngg equation once I go around that
Am I on the right track? Or did I make a mistake? is this even to be solved by partial fraction?
You should have written A/x + (Bx+C)/(x^2+4) + (Dx+E)/(x^2+4)^2. As SammyS said, parentheses are important.

Your expansion is fine. If you stick with this approach, you should find A=1/16, B=-1/16, C=0, D=-1/4, and E=0.
 
sorry for late response but thanks for the replies
 

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