Integration Using Partial Fractions

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves integrating the rational function (x^3 - 8x^2 - 1)/((x+3)(x^2-4x+5)) using partial fractions. The original poster expresses confusion about the process of rewriting the integrand after determining the coefficients A, B, and C in the partial fraction decomposition.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster seeks clarification on how to rewrite the integrand after finding the coefficients in the partial fraction decomposition. Some participants discuss the manipulation of the numerator to facilitate substitution in the integration process.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

drmatth
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Homework Statement



Integrate (x^3 - 8x^2 - 1)/((x+3)(x^2-4x+5))

Homework Equations



This is an integration by partial fractions.

The Attempt at a Solution



http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=integral+%28%28x^3-8x^2-1%29%2F%28%28x%2B3%29%28x^2-4x%2B5%29%29%29dx

I understand everything except where the integrand is rewritten after finding A, B, and C of the partial fraction decomposition. If anyone can help me understand how the integrand is rewritten that would be great. I just cannot make any sense out of it.

Thanks

Edit: If anyone is unfamiliar with WolframAlpha there is a "show steps" button in the top right corner of the problem statement, this is what I am referring to. It is about the 4th step down, rewrite the integrand.
 
Last edited:
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Here is a screenshot of the part I am asking about.
 

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They're starting with this part of the problem:
[tex]\int \frac{14 - 41x}{x^2 - 4x + 5}dx[/tex]

What they're doing is manipulating things that that a substitution of u = x2 - 4x + 5 (hence du = (2x - 4) dx) will work.

To get a numerator of -41/2*x + 82, which equals -(41/2)(2x - 4), they need to keep the numerator unchanged, so they are subtracting 68.

14 - 41x = -41x + 82 - 68 = -41/2(2x - 4) - 68
 
Yep I see it. I noticed the differential so I thought it was a substitution but I just could not get my head around the manipulation. Thank you for breaking it down for me.
 

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