Integrate 1/(1+e^x) dx: Solving the Problem

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The integration of 1/(1+e^x) dx was approached with the substitution t=1+e^x, leading to an incorrect formulation of the integral as 1/(t^2-1). The correct substitution should yield dt=e^xdx=(t-1)dx, allowing for the integral to be expressed as 1/t * dt/(t-1). This method leads to the need for partial fraction decomposition to solve the integral accurately. The discussion emphasizes the importance of proper substitution in integration techniques.
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Homework Statement


integrate 1/(1+e^x) dx

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


firstly i let t=1+e^x
and then i come to : integrate 1/(t^2-1)
and then i put t=secx
.
.
.
but then the final ans is -1/2 ln | 2/e^x +1 |

it should be 1 instead of 2, i hv checked for the steps for so many times, but found nothing wrong
 
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You have done the substitution wrong.

If t= 1+ e^x then dt= e^xdx= (t- 1)dx so that \frac{1}{t- 1}= dx.

\int \frac{1}{1+ e^x}dx= \int \frac{1}{t} \frac{dt}{t- 1}= \int \frac{1}{t(t- 1)} dt

NOT \int \frac{1}{t^2- 1} dt
 
Perhaps you should multiply the top and bottom of the expression by ##e^{-x}## and see what happens when you substitute ##u = e^{-x}##.
 
HallsofIvy said:
You have done the substitution wrong.

If t= 1+ e^x then dt= e^xdx= (t- 1)dx so that \frac{1}{t- 1}= dx.

\int \frac{1}{1+ e^x}dx= \int \frac{1}{t} \frac{dt}{t- 1}= \int \frac{1}{t(t- 1)} dt

NOT \int \frac{1}{t^2- 1} dt
then you can use partial fraction i.e. create (t)- (t-1) in the numerator
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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