Integration by partial fractions?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of a rational function, specifically the integral \(\int \frac{3x + 32}{x^{2}-16x + 64}dx\). Participants are exploring the method of integration by partial fractions and addressing the factorization of the denominator.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the factorization of the denominator and the application of polynomial long division. There is confusion regarding the degrees of the numerator and denominator, with some questioning the need for long division. Others mention completing the square in the numerator as a potential step.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their thoughts on factorization and integration techniques. Some guidance has been offered regarding the factorization of the denominator and the relationship between the degrees of the numerator and denominator, but no consensus has been reached on the next steps.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a need for a review of polynomial long division, and some participants are referencing external resources for further clarification on partial fractions.

James2
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Whoa, this here is kicking me hard! Okay, so I've got everything pretty well down until... stuff like... \int \frac{3x + 32}{x^{2}-16x + 64}dx

So, I get how to factor the denominator, but then what? The above won't factor... Also, I read that if the degree of the numerator is higher than the denominator I got to do polynomial long division... I need a review of polynomial long division; Lol.
 
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James2 said:
Whoa, this here is kicking me hard! Okay, so I've got everything pretty well down until... stuff like... \int \frac{3x + 32}{x^{2}-16x + 64}dx

So, I get how to factor the denominator, but then what? The above won't factor... Also, I read that if the degree of the numerator is higher than the denominator I got to do polynomial long division... I need a review of polynomial long division; Lol.
But the numerator is not higher order than the denominator and:$$\frac{3x + 32}{x^{2}-16x + 64}=\frac{3x+32}{(x-8)^2}$$See also:
http://www.math.ucdavis.edu/~kouba/CalcTwoDIRECTORY/partialfracdirectory/PartialFrac.html
 
x^2-16x+64=(x-8)^2
3x+32=3(x-8)+56
 
... oh yes, and complete the square in the numerator.
Thanks lurflurf. The example does not seem to illustrate the following comments does it?
 

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