SUMMARY
The integral of secant cubed, represented as I = ∫ sec³x dx, can be solved using integration by parts. By letting u = sec x and dv = sec²x dx, the solution simplifies to I = sec x tan x - ∫ sec x tan²x dx. Utilizing the identity tan²x = sec²x - 1, the integral is further reduced, leading to the final result: I = (1/2)[sec x tan x + ln|tan x + sec x|] + C. Additional resources for derivatives and integrals include Calc101 and Compute UW-Lax.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of integration techniques, specifically integration by parts.
- Familiarity with trigonometric identities, particularly
tan²x = sec²x - 1.
- Basic knowledge of calculus, including antiderivatives and their applications.
- Experience with mathematical notation and functions in programming contexts.
NEXT STEPS
- Study the method of integration by parts in detail.
- Learn more about trigonometric identities and their applications in calculus.
- Explore advanced integration techniques, such as substitution and partial fractions.
- Investigate online tools for calculus, including Wolfram Integrals and Calc101.
USEFUL FOR
Students and educators in calculus, mathematicians seeking to refine integration skills, and anyone looking for efficient methods to solve trigonometric integrals.