Proving the Integral of sqrt(a^2-x^2) without a Prefix

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the integral of the function \(\sqrt{9-x^2}\) using the substitution \(x=3\sin\Theta\). Participants are exploring the integration process and the application of trigonometric identities in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various attempts to rewrite the integral using trigonometric substitution and question the validity of their steps. Some express uncertainty about their direction, while others provide feedback on the correctness of initial steps and suggest reviewing relevant concepts.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's attempts. Some have made progress in rewriting the integral, while others are still clarifying their understanding of the integration process and trigonometric identities.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the application of integration rules and the proper setup of the integral in terms of \(\Theta\). Participants are also addressing potential mistakes in earlier steps and the need for careful consideration of trigonometric identities.

_wolfgang_
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Homework Statement


Prove that \int\sqrt{}9-x^2 dx

=\frac{9\Theta}{2}+\frac{9sin2\Theta}{4}+c

given that x=3sin\Theta

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


\int\sqrt{}9-x^2 dx

=\frac{(9-x^2)^{1.5}}{10x}

=\frac{(-x^2)(\sqrt{-x^2+9}+9\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}}{10x}

=\frac{-x(x^2\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}-9(\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}}{10}

=\frac{-3sin\Theta(9(sin^2)\Theta\sqrt{9(sin^2)\Theta-9}-9\sqrt{9(sin^2)+9}}{10}


Im not to sure if I am going in the right direction if i am not guidance would be appreciated
 
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_wolfgang_ said:

Homework Statement


Prove that

\int\sqrt{9-x^2}dx=\frac{9\Theta}{2}+\frac{9\sin2\Theta}{4}+c

given that x=3\sin\Theta.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


\int\sqrt{}9-x^2 dx

=\frac{(9-x^2)^{1.5}}{10x}

=\frac{(-x^2)(\sqrt{-x^2+9}+9\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}}{10x}

=\frac{-x(x^2\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}-9(\sqrt{(-x^2)+9}}{10}

=\frac{-3sin\Theta(9(sin^2)\Theta\sqrt{9(sin^2)\Theta-9}-9\sqrt{9(sin^2)+9}}{10}


I'm not to sure if I'm going in the right direction. If I am not, guidance would be appreciated.
You're not going in the right direction. Your very first step is wrong. The power rule only applies when the integrand is of the form xndx where n \ne -1. It doesn't apply when you have some function of x taken to a power, as you do in this case. Also, I have no idea where that 10x in the denominator came from.

Use the substitution given and rewrite the integral in terms of \theta first.
 
ok so if i do...

\int\sqrt{9-9sin^2\Theta}
=\int3-3sin\Theta
=3\Theta+3cos\Theta

is it going in the right direction now?? thanks for the help
 
Last edited:
Marginally better. First of all,

\sqrt{a^2-b^2} \ne a-b

Second, you forgot the dx and then didn't write it in terms of d\theta. Finally, not that it really matters, you didn't integrate the first term correctly.

I would suggest you review your textbook on the topic of trig substitutions. There's probably a similar example you could use as a template for solving this problem.
 
\sqrt{9- 9 sin^2(\theta)}= 3\sqrt{1- sin^2(\theta)}= 3\sqrt{cos^2(\theta)}
 
okay i was finally able to prove it!

\int\sqrt{a^2-x^2} dx
=\int a^2-a^2sin^2\Theta acos\Theta d\Theta
=\int\sqrt{a^2(1-sin^2\Theta} acos\Theta d\Theta
=\int\sqrt{a^2cos^2\Theta} acos\Theta d\Theta
=\int a^2cos^2\Theta d\Theta

=\frac{a^2}{2}(\Theta+sin\Thetacos\Theta)

i know i definatly skipped a couple of steps in integrating cos^2 :redface:
 
Last edited:

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