Solving the Integral: \int \dfrac{x-1}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral \(\int \dfrac{x-1}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx\), which falls under the subject area of integral calculus. Participants are exploring various approaches to tackle this integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss splitting the integrand into separate terms for integration, with some expressing difficulty in this approach. There are references to a specific integration technique involving the expression \(\int e^x(f(x)+f'(x))=e^xf(x)+C\), with requests for hints on how to apply it effectively.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and suggestions on how to manipulate the integrand. Some participants are questioning the validity of certain steps and interpretations, while others are attempting to clarify the integration process without reaching a consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There are indications that some participants may be struggling with foundational integration concepts, and there is a suggestion to reconsider how the terms are split in the integral. The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and confusion regarding the integration techniques applicable to this problem.

utkarshakash
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Homework Statement


\int \dfrac{x-1}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

The Attempt at a Solution


The most I can do is split the terms and integrate them individually but I am facing problems integrating the individual terms.
 
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utkarshakash said:

Homework Statement


\int \dfrac{x-1}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

The Attempt at a Solution


The most I can do is split the terms and integrate them individually but I am facing problems integrating the individual terms.

Do you know about the following:
\int e^x(f(x)+f'(x))=e^xf(x)+C?
The problem becomes really easy with that.
 
Pranav-Arora said:
Do you know about the following:
\int e^x(f(x)+f'(x))=e^xf(x)+C?
The problem becomes really easy with that.
I already know this but I'm finding it difficult to reduce the question to this form. Can you please give me some hints.
 
Pranav-Arora said:
Do you know about the following:
\int e^x(f(x)+f'(x))=e^xf(x)+C?
The problem becomes really easy with that.
I already know this but I'm finding it difficult to reduce the question to this form. Can you please give me some hints?
 
utkarshakash said:
I already know this but I'm finding it difficult to reduce the question to this form. Can you please give me some hints?

Pranav's hint is a good one. But to apply it, you need to see that ##x-1 = (x+1) - 2##. Split that rational expression into two, simplify, and see where you go from there.
 
utkarshakash said:

Homework Statement


\int \dfrac{x-1}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

The Attempt at a Solution


The most I can do is split the terms and integrate them individually but I am facing problems integrating the individual terms.
Thinking you can "split the terms and integrate them individually" indicates that you need to review integration all together!
 
HallsofIvy said:
Thinking you can "split the terms and integrate them individually" indicates that you need to review integration all together!

This means according to you this step is incorrect.

\displaystyle \int \dfrac{(x+1)-2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx \\<br /> \displaystyle \int (x+1)^{-2} e^x dx - \int \dfrac{2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx
 
utkarshakash said:
This means according to you this step is incorrect.

\displaystyle \int \dfrac{(x+1)-2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx \\<br /> \displaystyle \int (x+1)^{-2} e^x dx - \int \dfrac{2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

That step is correct. I think what HallsofIvy thought you meant by your statement was that you were going to integrate each 'component' of your integrand separately, ie integrate (x-1), 1/(x+1)3 and ex separately to obtain something completely nonsensical.
 
Last edited:
utkarshakash said:
This means according to you this step is incorrect.

\displaystyle \int \dfrac{(x+1)-2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx \\<br /> \displaystyle \int (x+1)^{-2} e^x dx - \int \dfrac{2}{(x+1)^3} e^x dx

Correct, but you don't actually have to split it up this way. Just leave the integrand as e^x times that expression, then use Pranav's hint.
 
  • #10
Curious3141 said:
Correct, but you don't actually have to split it up this way. Just leave the integrand as e^x times that expression, then use Pranav's hint.

I already know that. But HallsOfIvy thought splitting the terms like this is completely wrong.
 
  • #11
utkarshakash said:
I already know that. But HallsOfIvy thought splitting the terms like this is completely wrong.

No, he did not think or say that! He just said you need to review integration. Sometimes splitting up an integral is not helpful, even though it may be correct.
 
  • #12
utkarshakash said:
I already know that. But HallsOfIvy thought splitting the terms like this is completely wrong.

Plain and simple. Write x-1=(x+1)-2 and hence break the denominator. Now you get two separate integrands. Think. Integrating anyone of the two by parts should cancel other automatically and you might be able to get the correct integral.

And do not blame others. :rolleyes:
 
  • #13
sankalpmittal said:
Plain and simple. Write x-1=(x+1)-2 and hence break the denominator. Now you get two separate integrands. Think. Integrating anyone of the two by parts should cancel other automatically and you might be able to get the correct integral.

And do not blame others. :rolleyes:

I am not blaming others. I have already arrived at the answer.
 

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