Integration: completing the square and inverse trig functions

In summary, the integral of (x+2)dx/sqrt(3+2x-x2) can be solved by completing the square and using the substitution method. The final solution is -sqrt(a2-u2), where u=a2-x2 and a=2.
  • #1
JOhnJDC
35
0

Homework Statement



Find [tex]\int[/tex](x+2)dx/sqrt(3+2x-x2)

Homework Equations



[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2 - u2) = sin-1u/a

The Attempt at a Solution



I began by completing the square:
3+2x-x2 = 4 -(x2-2x+1)

So, 4-(x-1)2 = a2-u2 and a=2 and u=(x-1)
Further, since x=(u+1), dx=du and (x+2)=(u+3)

Substituting, I got:

[tex]\int[/tex](x+2)dx/sqrt(3+2x-x2) = [tex]\int[/tex](u+3)du/sqrt(a2-u2)

= [tex]\int[/tex]udu/sqrt(a2-u2) + 3[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2-u2)

This is where I get confused. I know that 3[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2-u2) = 3sin-1u/a

But, according to my book, [tex]\int[/tex]udu/sqrt(a2-u2) = -sqrt(a2-u2) and I don't understand why.

Can someone offer an explanation? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
JOhnJDC said:

This is where I get confused. I know that 3[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2-u2) = 3sin-1u/a

But, according to my book, [tex]\int[/tex]udu/sqrt(a2-u2) = -sqrt(a2-u2) and I don't understand why.

Can someone offer an explanation? Thanks.


using substitution

cos [tex]\theta[/tex] = [tex]\frac{u}{a}[/tex]
 
  • #3
annoymage said:
using substitution

cos [tex]\theta[/tex] = [tex]\frac{u}{a}[/tex]

Are you saying that I should substitute u=a sin theta to obtain:

[tex]\int[/tex]udu/sqrt(a2-u2) = [tex]\int[/tex](a sin theta)(a cos theta)(d theta)/(a cos theta) = a cos theta

So, u = a cos theta and cos theta = u/a, but u/a doesn't equal -sqrt(a2-u2)

What am I missing?
 
  • #4
JOhnJDC said:

This is where I get confused. I know that 3[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2-u2) = 3sin-1u/a

But, according to my book, [tex]\int[/tex]udu/sqrt(a2-u2) = -sqrt(a2-u2) and I don't understand why.

Can someone offer an explanation? Thanks.


see the difference :
3[tex]\int[/tex]du/sqrt(a2-u2) = 3sin-1u/a

and

[tex]\int[/tex]u du/sqrt(a2-u2) = -sqrt(a2-u2)

to obtain the second one, use : v = a2-u2
 
  • #5
Just take the derivative of both answers and you'll see why.
 
  • #6
I see it now. Thanks for your help.

[tex]\int[/tex](a2-u2)-1/2udu

Substitute v=a2-u2, dv=-2udu, udu=-dv/2

= -1/2[tex]\int[/tex]v-1/2dv = -v-1/2 = -sqrt(a2-u2)
 

What is completing the square in integration?

Completing the square is a method used in integration to rewrite a quadratic expression in the form of (x + a)^2. This allows for easier and more efficient integration by reducing the degree of the polynomial.

How does completing the square help in integration?

Completing the square helps in integration by simplifying the quadratic expression and making it easier to integrate using basic integration formulas. It also helps to convert the expression into a perfect square, which can be easily solved using inverse trigonometric functions.

What are inverse trigonometric functions?

Inverse trigonometric functions are the inverse operations of basic trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent. These functions are used to find the angle whose sine, cosine, or tangent is equal to a given value.

Why are inverse trigonometric functions important in integration?

Inverse trigonometric functions play a crucial role in integration, particularly when dealing with inverse trigonometric substitutions. These functions help to simplify complicated integrals and can be used to solve integrals involving inverse trigonometric expressions.

How do I use inverse trigonometric functions in integration?

To use inverse trigonometric functions in integration, you first need to identify the appropriate substitution. Then, you can use the corresponding inverse trigonometric function to simplify the integral. It is also important to be familiar with the properties and identities of inverse trigonometric functions to successfully integrate using them.

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