Integration Help: Solving x^2/sqrt(16-x^2) Integral

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the integral of the function x^2/sqrt(16-x^2) using trigonometric substitution. Participants are exploring the steps involved in the integration process, including potential mistakes and alternative approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their approach using the substitution x=4sin(u) and expresses confusion about the next steps after simplification.
  • Another participant points out a potential error in the denominator, questioning whether it should be squared.
  • A different participant provides a detailed calculation, suggesting that the correct denominator is 4cos(u) instead of 4cos^2(u) and offers a derived expression for the integral.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of not providing full solutions to help the original poster learn, while another expresses regret for their previous harshness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the substitution method but disagree on the handling of the denominator and the necessity of integration by parts. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the original poster's confusion and the correctness of the steps taken.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the simplification of the integral and the application of trigonometric identities. Some assumptions about the correctness of the steps taken by the original poster are also not fully clarified.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in integration techniques, particularly those involving trigonometric substitution, may find this discussion beneficial.

VantagePoint72
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Hello,
I'm currently learning integration by trig substitution. The problem is:
integral ( x^2/sqrt(16-x^2) ) dx.
I seem to be having some difficulty...this is what I have:
let x=4sinu
dx = 4cosu du

Thus, we have:

integral 16sin^2(u)*4cosu du/(4cos^2(u)) (the last part is from the trig identity sin^2x + cos^2x = 1)

But now what? I simplied that as much as I could and then used integration by parts, but I ended up with the wrong answer. The correct answer is 8arcsin(x/4) - 0.5x*sqrt(16-x^2). Have I made a mistake in what I've done so far? If not, where do I proceed?

Thanks,
LOS
 
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\sqrt{1-\sin^2u}=|\cos u|.
 
Check your denominator again. Should the cosine term really be squared? Shouldn't be any need for integration by parts after that.
 
\int \frac{x^2}{\sqrt{16-x^2}}dx

x=4sin u, dx=4cos u du

\int\frac{16sin^2u}{(4cosu)}4cosu du

16\int sin^2udu

16(\frac{u}{2}-\frac{sinu*cosu}{2})

8u-8sinu*cosu

8sin^{-1}(\frac{x}{4})-2x\sqrt{1-(\frac{x}{4})^2}

8sin^{-1}(\frac{x}{4})-2x\frac{\sqrt{16-x^2}}{4}

8sin^{-1}(\frac{x}{4})-\frac{x}{2}\sqrt{16-x^2}

Your mistake was that your denominator should have been 4cosu, not 4cos^2u
 
Your new so I won't say much, but please 1) Do not give out a full solution, it never helps the original poster learn anything and 2) Repeat what another member says just in a more blatantly obvious manner.
 
Sorry and thanks
 
I feel bad for being so harsh now :( Sorry lol.
 
Gib Z said:
I feel bad for being so harsh now :( Sorry lol.
I don't.
I'll flay him him next time.

Flebbyman: I know your address..:devil:
 
Gib Z said:
I feel bad for being so harsh now :( Sorry lol.

Don't sweat it

arildno said:
I know your address..:devil:

:smile:
 

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