Solving Difficult Integral Homework with Limits

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating a complex integral involving square roots and rational functions, specifically the integral of the form \(\int \frac{\sqrt{a^2-x^2}(x-b)}{x^2-c^2}dx\) with defined limits. The subject area is calculus, focusing on integration techniques and substitutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to split the integral into two parts and considers a substitution \(u=x^2\) for simplification. Some participants suggest alternative substitutions, such as \(x=a\sin(t)\), to transform the integral into a different form. Questions arise regarding the effectiveness of these substitutions and how they might simplify the problem further.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various substitution methods and their implications on the integral. Some guidance has been offered regarding potential substitutions, but there is no explicit consensus on the best approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of the integral and the implications of different substitutions, with some noting potential errors in the original setup. The discussion reflects the challenges of integrating functions with square roots and rational expressions.

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Homework Statement



I want to evaluate the integral:

[tex]\int \frac{\sqrt{a^2-x^2}(x-b)}{x^2-c^2}dx[/tex]

Homework Equations



the integration limits are d (lower limit) and a (upper limit)

The Attempt at a Solution


First, I split the integral into 2 parts:

[tex]\int \frac{\sqrt{a^2-x^2}(x)}{x^2-c^2}dx- \int \frac{\sqrt{a^2-x^2}(b)}{x^2-c^2}dx[/tex]

Then, i decided to deal with each part separately.
For the first part, i tried to use a substitution: let u=x^2, this gives:
[tex]\int \frac{\sqrt{a^2-u}}{2(u-c^2)}du[/tex]

But, i thave no idea how to continue from there. the second part i also find difficult.
Does anyone have any ideas on the substitution i should consider?

Thank you very much in advance.
 
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the denominator in the last integral should read:
2(u-c^2)
 
Well, making [itex]x=a\sin t [/tex] in the original integral throws away the square root. Then you will return to an integral of a rational function by making a new substitution: [itex]\tan\frac{t}{2} = u[/itex].[/itex]
 
After making the substitution x=a*sin(t), I get:

[tex]\int \frac{a^2 cos^2(t)(a sin(t)-b)}{a^2 sin^2(t)-c^2}dt[/tex]

but if i then use the substitution: tan(t/2)=u,
this means: [tex]\frac{sec^2(t/2)}{2}dt=du[/tex]
so,
[tex]dt=2cos^2(t/2)du[/tex]

How does this reduce the problem?
 

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