Inverse trig functions and pythagorean identity

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The discussion focuses on the relationship between inverse trigonometric functions, specifically arcsin x, and the Pythagorean identity. The derivative of arcsin x is derived using the identity cos x = sqrt(1 - (sin x)^2), leading to the expression 1/(sqrt(1 - x^2)). The antiderivative of arcsin x is found using integration by parts, resulting in the formula x arcsin x + sqrt(1 - x^2) + C. The Pythagorean identity is indirectly involved in the integration process, particularly in simplifying the derivative and antiderivative calculations. Understanding these relationships is essential for grasping the concepts of inverse trig functions and their integrals.
Moonflower
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Hi. I'm having trouble trying to understand the relationship between inverse trig functions, especially arcsin x, and pythagorean identity. I know that because cosx=sqrt(1-(sinx)^2), derivative of arcsin x is 1/(cos(arcsin x)) = 1/(sqrt(1-(sinx)^2)arcsinx)) = 1/(sqrt(1-x^2). But how does pythagorean identity relate with antiderivative of arcsin, which is x arcsin x + sqrt(1-x^2) + C?
 
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Moonflower said:
Hi. I'm having trouble trying to understand the relationship between inverse trig functions, especially arcsin x, and pythagorean identity. I know that because cosx=sqrt(1-(sinx)^2), derivative of arcsin x is 1/(cos(arcsin x)) = 1/(sqrt(1-(sinx)^2)arcsinx)) = 1/(sqrt(1-x^2). But how does pythagorean identity relate with antiderivative of arcsin, which is x arcsin x + sqrt(1-x^2) + C?
I don't see that the pythagorean identity enters into it at all. To find the antiderivative of arcsin(x), use integration by parts, with u = arcsin(x) and dv = dx. If you don't understand how this works, let me know and I'll fill in the details.
 
Mark44: Actually, I would be thankful if you can explain how the antiderivative of arcsin (x) works, because I have trouble understanding the concept. Thanks.
 
Let u = arcsin(x) and dv = dx
So du = dx/sqrt(1 - x^2), v = x
\int arcsin(x) dx = x*arcsin(x) - \int \frac{x dx}{\sqrt{1 - x^2}}

For the integral on the right, let w = 1 - x^2, so dw = -2xdx

= x*arcsin(x) - (-1/2)\int u^{-1/2}du = x*arcsin(x) + u^{1/2} + C
= x*arcsin(x) + \sqrt{1 - x^2} + C
 
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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