Trigonometric substitution. Pretty confused where constant comes from. (fixed)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the integral ∫ from 0 to 0.6 of x² / √(9 - 25x²) dx, specifically focusing on the trigonometric substitution method and the origin of a constant factor in the transformation process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the process of trigonometric substitution, questioning how the constant (9/25) arises when substituting x = (3/5)sin(θ). There is discussion about the transformation of both the numerator and denominator during the substitution.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing insights into the transformation process and others suggesting that the original poster work through the substitution independently to enhance understanding. There is a recognition of the confusion surrounding the constants involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the derivation of constants during trigonometric substitution, with participants reflecting on their thought processes and assumptions about the integral's evaluation.

randoreds
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Find ∫from .6 to 0 x^2/ sqrt(9-25x^2) dx

My teacher worked this on the board a little confused
O obviously the trig sub is asintheta. But it isn't in the right form yet. So get it there you pull out a 25 --) sqrt(25(9/25) - x^2 ) 5sqrt((9/25)-x^2 so x= (3/5) sintheta so dx = 3/5costheta. so you change the bounds pi/2 to 0
When you replace everything you get
∫pi/2 to 0 (9/25) times ( sin^2θ/ 3cosθ) times (3/5) cosdθ


Where does that (9/25) come from?

I understand how to do the rest, just totally confused where that constant comes
 
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randoreds said:
Find ∫from .6 to 0 x^2/ sqrt(9-25x^2) dx

My teacher worked this on the board a little confused
O obviously the trig sub is asintheta. But it isn't in the right form yet. So get it there you pull out a 25 --) sqrt(25(9/25) - x^2 ) 5sqrt((9/25)-x^2 so x= (3/5) sintheta so dx = 3/5costheta. so you change the bounds pi/2 to 0
When you replace everything you get
∫pi/2 to 0 (9/25) times ( sin^2θ/ 3cosθ) times (3/5) cosdθ
^
||
Where does that (9/25) come from?

I understand how to do the rest, just totally confused where that constant comes

If x=(3/5)sin(theta) then the x^2 in the numerator becomes (9/25)sin(theta)^2. Is that the factor you are looking for?
 
Dick said:
If x=(3/5)sin(theta) then the x^2 in the numerator becomes (9/25)sin(theta)^2. Is that the factor you are looking for?

Thanks, it is that factor. But if you think about the cos too. It would be (3/5sinθ)2 --) 9/25 sintheta on the numerator and 3/5 cos theta on the demoniator. So wouldn't that give you 25/9 times 5 if you keep the 3 where she kept it with the cos.
 
randoreds said:
Thanks, it is that factor. But if you think about the cos too. It would be (3/5sinθ)2 --) 9/25 sintheta on the numerator and 3/5 cos theta on the demoniator. So wouldn't that give you 25/9 times 5 if you keep the 3 where she kept it with the cos.

It looks like you are looking a solution and trying to figure out where everything comes from without working it out for yourself. Why don't you try doing it from scratch? Put x=(3/5)sin(theta) and work it out from there. It's really the best way to learn.
 
Dick said:
It looks like you are looking a solution and trying to figure out where everything comes from without working it out for yourself. Why don't you try doing it from scratch? Put x=(3/5)sin(theta) and work it out from there. It's really the best way to learn.

Yeah, I was. Thanks , I just figured it out. That was actually kinda simple. I think I was just was over thinking it : )
 

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