Simplifying a arc length problem

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying an arc length problem involving hyperbolic functions, specifically the integral of a function defined in terms of cosh and sinh. Participants explore methods to simplify the expression and seek clarification on the steps involved.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an integral expression for arc length and seeks help in simplifying it using Maple.
  • Another participant suggests using the definitions of cosh and sinh in terms of exponentials to derive identities related to hyperbolic functions.
  • A further contribution hints at a specific identity involving sinh, prompting a realization about the simplification process.
  • One participant expresses difficulty in recognizing and applying hyperbolic identities in the context of the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the approach of using hyperbolic identities, but the discussion does not resolve the specific steps for simplification, leaving some uncertainty regarding the application of these identities.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the explicit steps for simplification and the dependence on recognizing hyperbolic identities, which may not be fully articulated.

hutchwilco
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Simplifying an arc length problem

I have L= Int(-2..2) sqrt(16*cosh(4*t)^2+9*sinh(4*t)^2+9)

and can use Maple to simplify this to sqrt(25*cosh(4*t)^2)
but I just can't see how that is done. (or how to get maple to show me the steps!)

Can anyone help by showing the steps, including any trig substitutions/identities used?
 
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try the definition of cosh and sinh in terms of exponentials (or use that to derive the hyperbolic equivalent of sin^2 + cos^2 = 1)
 
[tex]1+ \sinh^2 x = ...[/tex] so [tex]9 + 9 \sinh^2 (4t) = .....[/tex]?
 
ah! thanks - i can't believe I didn't see that - it's only one step! I often have problems seeing the stripped down identities and applying them to problems which have other factors (eg 9 and 4t etc).
Thanks for the hint
 

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