Simplifying Definite Integrals with Quotient Rule

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the expression ##P + 2I - \frac{1}{\pi + 4}##, where ##P## and ##I## are defined as definite integrals involving trigonometric functions and polynomial expressions. The context is within the subject area of calculus, specifically focusing on integration techniques and the application of the quotient rule.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the substitution method for simplifying the integral ##I## and explore the derivative of a quotient to relate it to the integrals. There are inquiries about how to proceed after rewriting the integrals and hints about using the quotient rule.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance by suggesting the computation of the derivative of a quotient, which appears to have led to a productive direction in the discussion. There are indications of successful attempts at simplification, but no consensus on a final outcome has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of correctly handling signs in the calculations, as well as the potential for cancellation in the expression involving ##-\frac{1}{\pi + 4}##. There is an emphasis on the need for careful manipulation of terms to avoid errors.

Saitama
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Homework Statement


If ##\displaystyle P=\int_0^{\pi} \frac{\cos x}{(x+4)^2}dx## and ##\displaystyle I=\int_0^{\pi/2} \frac{\sin (2x)}{2x+4}dx##, then the value of ##P+2I-\frac{1}{\pi+4}## is equal to

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


By substituting 2x=t i.e 2dx=dt, and replacing t with x, I can be rewritten as
[tex]I=\frac{1}{2}\int_0^{\pi} \frac{\sin x}{x+4}dx[/tex]
[tex]P+2I=\int_0^{\pi} \frac{\cos x+x\sin x+4\sin x}{(x+4)^2}dx[/tex]

How should I proceed from here? :confused:

Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
 
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Try computing $$\frac{d}{dx} \frac{\cos x}{x + 4}$$.
 
CompuChip said:
Try computing $$\frac{d}{dx} \frac{\cos x}{x + 4}$$.

Ah yes, but how did you think of this?

So ##P+2I=1/4+1/(4+\pi)##, hence the answer is ##1/4##.

Thanks CompuChip! :smile:
 
Having f/T² in one term and f'/T in other was a pretty big hint, which reminded me of the quotient rule
[tex]\left( \frac{f}{g} \right)' = \frac{f'}{g} - \frac{f g'}{g^2}[/tex]
So I tried that hoping it would get me somewhere, and luckily it worked out exactly (if you don't get the minus signs wrong, as I initially did - there the -1/(pi + 4) was the clue that something might need to cancel out).
 
CompuChip said:
Having f/T² in one term and f'/T in other was a pretty big hint, which reminded me of the quotient rule
[tex]\left( \frac{f}{g} \right)' = \frac{f'}{g} - \frac{f g'}{g^2}[/tex]
So I tried that hoping it would get me somewhere, and luckily it worked out exactly (if you don't get the minus signs wrong, as I initially did - there the -1/(pi + 4) was the clue that something might need to cancel out).

Thank you again! That is very helpful. :smile:
 

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