Integral of 1+x2/(1+x4): Step-by-Step Solution

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In summary: It can be factored into two complex quadratics with real coefficients, where each quadratic has two real roots.
  • #1
mjolnir80
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Homework Statement


find the indefinate integral of 1+x2/(1+x4)




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


im having trouble trying to figure what to use to substitute into this equation
 
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  • #2
I would do it by partial fractions. You can factor (x^4+1) into two real quadratics. The coefficients may not all be rational, but that's ok. Can you do that?
 
  • #3
Dick said:
I would do it by partial fractions. You can factor (x^4+1) into two real quadratics. The coefficients may not all be rational, but that's ok. Can you do that?
I'd like to see that factorization. I've been under the impression for a long time that x^4 + 1 was irreducible over the reals.

If we allow complex numbers, the fourth roots of -1 (solutions of x^4 = -1) are
cos(pi/4) + i sin(pi/4)
cos(3pi/4) + i sin(3pi/4)
cos(5pi/4) + i sin(5pi/4)
cos(7pi/4) + i sin(7pi/4)
none of which are real.
 
  • #4
(1+x^2)/(1+x^4) = 1/(1+(sqrt(2)*x+1)^2) + 1/(1+(sqrt(2)*x-1)^2)

I found this by tracking back from the answer, which is obtained using Maple.

For how to get this relation without referring to the answer, I'm not sure.
 
  • #5
Mark44 said:
I'd like to see that factorization. I've been under the impression for a long time that x^4 + 1 was irreducible over the reals.

If we allow complex numbers, the fourth roots of -1 (solutions of x^4 = -1) are
cos(pi/4) + i sin(pi/4)
cos(3pi/4) + i sin(3pi/4)
cos(5pi/4) + i sin(5pi/4)
cos(7pi/4) + i sin(7pi/4)
none of which are real.

Ok. x^4+1=(x^2+sqrt(2)x+1)(x^2-sqrt(2)x+1). x^4+1 is irreducible over the RATIONALS, not over the REALS. Your roots group into two pairs of complex conjugates (of course). Use them to construct the quadratics.
 
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  • #6
Dick said:
Ok. x^4+1=(x^2+sqrt(2)x+1)(x^2-sqrt(2)+1). x^4+1 is irreducible over the RATIONALS, not over the REALS. Your roots group into two pairs of complex conjugates (of course). Use them to construct the quadratics.
OK, let me rephrase: x^4 + 1 can't be factored into linear factors with real coefficients.
 

1. What is the purpose of finding the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4)?

The purpose of finding the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) is to determine the area under the curve of the given function. This can be useful in many applications, such as calculating work done in physics or finding the total cost of production in economics.

2. What is the step-by-step solution for finding the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4)?

The step-by-step solution for finding the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) involves using substitution and the properties of integrals. First, substitute u = x^2 + 1 to simplify the integral to 1/u(1+u^2). Then, use partial fractions to break down the integrand into simpler fractions. Finally, use the inverse substitution to find the final solution.

3. Is there a specific method or rule to follow when finding the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4)?

Yes, the method used to find the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) is known as substitution. This involves substituting a variable to simplify the integral and then using the inverse substitution to find the final solution. It is a commonly used method in calculus to solve various types of integrals.

4. Can the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) be solved without using substitution?

No, the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) cannot be solved without using substitution. Other methods, such as integration by parts or trigonometric substitutions, are not applicable to this particular integral. Therefore, substitution is the most efficient and effective method for solving this integral.

5. What is the final result of the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4)?

The final result of the integral of 1+x^2/(1+x^4) is 1/2ln(1+x^4) + 1/4arctan(x^2) + C, where C is the constant of integration. This can be verified by differentiating the solution to get back the original integrand. It is important to include the constant of integration as it accounts for all possible solutions to the integral.

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