Solution to ∫ dx x^2 /(1+x^2): Step-by-Step Guide

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral ∫ dx x² /(1+x²), with participants seeking a step-by-step solution. The scope includes various methods of integration, such as integration by parts and substitution, as well as considerations of the integrand's properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in solving the integral using integration by parts with u = x and dv = x /(1+x²), indicating they get stuck at a certain point.
  • Another participant requests clarification on where the first participant gets stuck, suggesting a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
  • Several participants propose integration by parts with different choices for u and dv, leading to expressions involving logarithmic and arctangent functions, but they also indicate that they reach stopping points without completing the solution.
  • One participant suggests using the substitution x = tan(u) as a potential method to approach the integral.
  • A different approach is mentioned involving polynomial long division to simplify the integrand before integration, which is described as an easier method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a complete solution to the integral. Multiple methods are proposed, but no single approach is agreed upon as the definitive solution.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the integrand as an improper rational expression, which may influence the choice of integration technique. There are indications of unresolved steps in the integration processes discussed.

physfed
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I would like to know the step by step solution of this integral:

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2)

I tried to solve it integrating by parts with u = x dv =x /(1+x^2) , or with hyperbolic functions, but I always get stuck...

Thank you
 
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physfed said:
I tried to solve it integrating by parts with u = x dv =x /(1+x^2) , or with hyperbolic functions, but I always get stuck...
Can you show us where you get stuck?
 
∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2)

u = x dv =x /(1+x^2)

so

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2) = x log(1+x^2) -∫ dx log(1+x^2) ...stop

I also tried

u = x^2 dv = 1 /(1+x^2)

so

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2) = x^2 atan(x) -∫ dx 2x atan(x) ...stop
 
physfed said:
∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2)

u = x dv =x /(1+x^2)

so

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2) = x log(1+x^2) -∫ dx log(1+x^2) ...stop

I also tried

u = x^2 dv = 1 /(1+x^2)

so

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2) = x^2 atan(x) -∫ dx 2x atan(x) ...stop

Try ##x = tan(u)##
 
physfed said:
I would like to know the step by step solution of this integral:

∫ dx x^2 /( 1+x^2)
The integrand is an improper rational expression (degree of numerator = degree of denominator).

You can either use polynomial long division to get a proper rational expression, or do the following, which is easier:
$$\int \frac{x^2~dx}{1 + x^2} = \int \frac{1 + x^2 - 1~dx}{1 + x^2}$$
Now split into two integrals, one of which is trivial and the other you probably already know.
physfed said:
I tried to solve it integrating by parts with u = x dv =x /(1+x^2) , or with hyperbolic functions, but I always get stuck...

Thank you
 
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