Solving an Integral Problem with Trig Substitution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving an integral problem involving trigonometric substitution, specifically with the expression in the form x^2 - a^2. The original poster attempts to apply a substitution method to evaluate the integral but encounters discrepancies with provided multiple-choice answers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of trigonometric substitution, specifically the substitution x = 7secθ, and the resulting transformations of the integral. Questions arise regarding the correctness of the final expression and its relation to multiple-choice answers, with some participants exploring the possibility of rearranging logarithmic terms.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and clarifications regarding the original poster's approach. There is an acknowledgment of potential differences in answers due to constants, and some participants express uncertainty about rearranging expressions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a multiple-choice format, which may influence their willingness to select "none of the above." There is also a focus on ensuring that the final expressions align with expected answers.

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Homework Statement



http://i.imgur.com/u1De0i3.png

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So I notice that the bottom is in the form x^2 - a^2 where a = 7, so I use trig substitution to start this off.

x = 7secθ, dx = 7secθtanθ, and finally, x^2 - 49 = 49sec(θ)^2 - 49 = 49 tan^2(θ)
Substituting into the integral, I get
7∫(sec^2(θ) - secθ) dθ, which basically turns into:
7tanθ - 7 ln |secθ + tanθ|.
After putting x back into the equation, I end up with:
√(x^2-49) - 7 ln|(x/7) + (√(x^2-49)/7)| + C
I would just like your help in checking my answers, because I don't get any of the answers provided in the multiple choice, and I'm always hesitant to pick "none of the above". Thank you.
 
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Temp0 said:

Homework Statement



http://i.imgur.com/u1De0i3.png

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



So I notice that the bottom is in the form x^2 - a^2 where a = 7, so I use trig substitution to start this off.

x = 7secθ, dx = 7secθtanθ, and finally, x^2 - 49 = 49sec(θ)^2 - 49 = 49 tan^2(θ)
Substituting into the integral, I get
7∫(sec^2(θ) - secθ) dθ, which basically turns into:
7tanθ - 7 ln |secθ + tanθ|.
After putting x back into the equation, I end up with:
√(x^2-49) - 7 ln|(x/7) + (√(x^2-49)/7)| + C
I would just like your help in checking my answers, because I don't get any of the answers provided in the multiple choice, and I'm always hesitant to pick "none of the above". Thank you.

One of those answers differs from your answer by a constant.
 
What do you mean? Hmm, I can't really see any way to rearrange it like that, I think I know the one you're talking about though.
 
Temp0 said:
What do you mean? Hmm, I can't really see any way to rearrange it like that, I think I know the one you're talking about though.

For example, log(x/7)=log(x)-log(7).
 
Ohhhh! Let's see if I can go any further now, thanks a lot.
 

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