Trigonometric Substitution Problem - Calculus 2

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on evaluating the integral \(\int\frac{4}{\sqrt{3-2x^2}}dx\) using trigonometric substitution in a Calculus 2 context. Participants clarify that the expression \(\sqrt{3-2x^2}\) can be rewritten as \(\sqrt{2}*\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}-x^2}\), which aids in simplifying the integral. The importance of factoring out coefficients correctly in trigonometric substitutions is emphasized, ensuring accurate evaluation of integrals involving square roots.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integral calculus, specifically trigonometric substitution techniques.
  • Familiarity with manipulating square root expressions and factoring.
  • Knowledge of basic trigonometric identities and their applications in calculus.
  • Experience with evaluating definite and indefinite integrals.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of trigonometric substitution in depth, focusing on integrals with coefficients.
  • Practice evaluating integrals involving square roots, specifically using the substitution \(\sqrt{a^2 - x^2}\).
  • Learn about the relationship between trigonometric identities and integral calculus.
  • Explore advanced integral techniques, including integration by parts and partial fractions.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for Calculus 2 students, educators teaching integral calculus, and anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of trigonometric substitution methods in calculus.

khatche4
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Hey there
This is a trig substitution for my Calculus 2 class and I really have NO idea how to get started...

\int\frac{4}{\sqrt{3-2x^2}}dx

My professor has yet to go over how to evaluate trigonometric substitutions with coefficients in front of variables.
 
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how about factoring out the 2?
 
How would you factor out the two?

Because \sqrt{3-2x^2} is not the same as 2*\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}-x^2}
 
khatche4 said:
How would you factor out the two?

Because \sqrt{3-2x^2} is not the same as 2*\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}-x^2}

Yes, but \sqrt{3-2x^2} = \sqrt{2}*\sqrt{\frac{3}{2}-x^2}. I may not have been clear in my previous post.
 
Oh! Duh! Thank you!
I'll give it a try.
 

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