Solving Integration Problem: x^3*sqrt(x^2 +1)

[Molecular]

Homework Statement

Integrate x^3*sqrt(x^2 +1)

Homework Equations

The problem is to be solved by using substitution

The Attempt at a Solution

To be honest I'm at a complete stump here, I've tried most values for U. My first guess was x^3, since du/dx = 3x^2, but I can't substitute this into a root, can I? Choosing x^2+1 as U is also moot, as the derivative equals 2x and by substituting you are still left with x^2 on the left side of the equation.

So I thought perhaps the best idea would be to substitute all of sqrt(x^2 +1), as the derivative becomes x/(sqrt(x^2+1)) = x/u, but even then, I'm stuck with x^2 by substituting.

I've also tried all sorts of ways to rewrite the equation (such as x^3*(x^2+1)^0.5, however, with no luck). I'm really starting to wonder how I'm supposed to integrate this function by use of substitution, anyone got any thoughts that could push me in the right direction?

Thanks.

 

[neutrino]

Choosing x^2+1 as U is also moot, as the derivative equals 2x and by substituting you are still left with x^2 on the left side of the equation.

Ah, but x^2 = u-1.

 

[Molecular]

Ah, but x^2 = u-1.

Aah of course, thank you for the help, my man. Seeing those little things is what makes integration fun, except of course, when you don't see them ;p.

Thanks again!

 

[HallsofIvy]

Have you considered writing $x^3\sqt{x^2+ 1}$ as $x^2\sqrt{x^2+1} (x)$ and letting u= x^{2[/sup[+ 1?}