Solving a Complicated Integral: Exploring Substitution Method

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating the expression \(\int \frac{(5x - x^{2})^{2}}{2} dx\). The original poster expresses difficulty with the substitution method and seeks clarification on the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts substitution with \(u = (5x - x^{2})\) but finds the process complicated. Other participants suggest expanding the integrand and remind to include \(dx\) in the expression.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different approaches to the integral, including substitution and expansion. Some guidance has been offered regarding the expansion of the squared term, and there is acknowledgment of a potential solution, though no consensus has been reached on the method to be used.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a desire for step-by-step guidance, highlighting the complexity of the integral and the challenges faced with the substitution method.

Ocis
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Integrate [tex]\int[/tex] [tex]\frac{\left(5x - x^{2}\right)^{2}}{2}[/tex]

I have been going round in circles using the substitution of u = [tex]\left(5x - x^{2}\right)[/tex]

But it gets too complicated, where am I going wrong? I would really appreciate it if someone could please explain in stages what exactly I have to do.
Many thanks
 
Last edited:
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[tex]\frac 1 2\int(5x-x^2)^2dx[/tex]

Don't forget your dx.

Expand ... [tex](x-y)^2=x^2-2xy+y^2[/tex]
 
Last edited:
Is the solution anywhere close to this?

[tex]\frac{\left(25x ^{3}\right)}{6}[/tex] [tex]-[/tex] [tex]\frac{\left(10x ^{4}\right)}{4}[/tex] [tex]+[/tex] [tex]\frac{\left(x ^{5}\right)}{5}[/tex]

Thanks,
 
Oh yeah of course it is, thanks to you all. Panic over!
 

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