Prove using de moivre's theorem of I=cos^2n theta

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving an integral involving the cosine function raised to an even power, specifically using de Moivre's Theorem. The integral in question is from 0 to π of (cos(x))^(2n)dx, with a focus on deriving a specific formula related to this integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various approaches, including using de Moivre's Theorem and Euler's formula. Some explore the binomial theorem and the implications of integrating cosine functions raised to powers. Others express uncertainty about how to represent coefficients and whether certain expansions are necessary.

Discussion Status

There are multiple lines of reasoning being explored, with some participants attempting to derive results through pattern recognition and integration. Hints have been provided regarding the use of specific mathematical identities, but there is no clear consensus on the best approach or the next steps to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the constraints of the problem, including the lack of available mark schemes and the time pressure of an upcoming exam. There is also mention of previous attempts to prove related results, indicating a foundation of understanding that may influence current discussions.

indie452
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Homework Statement



Use de Moivre's Theorem and the result that integral (with limits pi, 0) of cos[nx]dx = 0 for all non-zero integers of n. when n does equal 0 the answer is 1.

[this i proved in the first section of the qu using logic and limits(x->0).

so we need to prove that

integral[with limits pi, 0] [(cos(x))2n]dx = [pi / (2)2n] * [(2n)! / (n!)2]

Homework Equations



de moivre -> (cos(nx) + i*sin(nx)) = (cos(x) + i*sin(x))n

eulers -> (cos(x) + i*sin(x)) = eix

The Attempt at a Solution



okay I've tried not using de moivres and trying to find a pattern by doing the integral a few times, and I've also thought that using eulers formula might help, but i seriously just can't get started...i know that i need to use the real part of the formula but i don't know what to do first.this is a past exam paper by the way and my uni doesn't issue mark schemes, plus it being bank hols weekend no one will be there until wednesday

i appreciate any help or even just ideas on how to get started
thanks
 
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cos(x) = (exp(ix) + exp(-ix))/2

Take both sides to the power 2n

Use the binomial theorem for the right-hand side

Integrate
 
well I've just done that between posting the qu and reading your reply and this is what I've done

cos(x)2n = 1 / 2^(2n) * (values of cos + (2n)! / ((n!)2))

the values of cos were found with setting n to various numbers and expanding
ie-
if n=2 :-values of cos were cos4x + 4cos2x
if n=3 :-values of cos were cos6x + 6cos4x + 15cos2x

but i don't know if i can do this without expanding and leaving n in there.

so with this equ integrated the cos becomes sin and then fall to 0 because integar numbers of pi is 0, and (2n)! / (n!)2 becomes (2n)! / ((n!)2) *x and the times this by the 1 / 2^(2n) gives the answer.

but once again i don't know whether i should know how to represent the 'values of cos' relating it to n [the main prob is the coefficients], cause i won't have this kind of time in the exam
 
Last edited:
Hi indie452! :smile:

(have a pi: π :wink:)
indie452 said:
Use de Moivre's Theorem and the result that integral (with limits pi, 0) of cos[nx]dx = 0 for all non-zero integers of n. when n does equal 0 the answer is 1.

[this i proved in the first section of the qu using logic and limits(x->0).

so we need to prove that

integral[with limits pi, 0] [(cos(x))2n]dx = [pi / (2)2n] * [(2n)! / (n!)2]

Use nealjking's :smile: two hints: cos(x) = (eix + e-ix)/2,

and (a + b)2n = ∑akb2n-k 2nCk

which coefficient(s) are the only ones with nonzero integral? :wink:
 

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