Trig Substitution Homework: Solving \int{cos^4 6x sin^3 6x dx}

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral \(\int{cos^4 6x sin^3 6x dx}\), which falls under the subject area of integral calculus, specifically focusing on trigonometric functions and substitution techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various approaches to simplify the integral, including the use of power-reducing formulas and substitutions. There is uncertainty about the correct sequence of applying these techniques, particularly regarding the use of substitution and power-reducing formulas together.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods and clarifying their understanding of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of identities and substitutions, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion about the application of power-reducing formulas and the implications of using substitutions, indicating a need for further clarification on these concepts.

duki
Messages
264
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



[tex]\int{cos^4 6x sin^3 6x dx}[/tex]

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



I've gotten this far but now I'm stuck:

[tex]\int{cos^4 6x sin 6x sin^2 6x dx} = \int{cos^4 6x}*(\frac{1-cos 12x}{2})sin 6x dx[/tex]
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
From you having the integrand as this: cos^4 6x sin^3 6x dx

Use a substitution u = cos^4 6x
 
I don't understand exactly. Are you saying use substitution after using the power-reducing formula? Or do I not use power-reducing at all here? I briefly saw him explaining it to one person, and he mentioned something about reducing it from sin^3 to sin^2... I could have misunderstood though.
 
Sorry, that substitution was wrong. Tomorrow when I'm more awake (it's 3:40 AM here) I'll have another look at it.
 
duki said:
I don't understand exactly. Are you saying use substitution after using the power-reducing formula? Or do I not use power-reducing at all here? I briefly saw him explaining it to one person, and he mentioned something about reducing it from sin^3 to sin^2... I could have misunderstood though.

Use the fact that [tex]sin^3 (6x) =sin^2 (6x) . sin(6x)[/tex]. Then perhaps make use of the pythagorean identity, and you will be 1 simple substitution away from a solution :smile:
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K