Trigonometric Substitution problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a trigonometric substitution problem involving the integral ∫(√(x²-4)/x) dx. The original poster attempts to apply the substitution x=2secθ and expresses the integral in terms of θ.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the steps taken in the substitution process, including the transformation of dx and the simplification of the integral. Questions arise regarding the handling of the dx substitution and the subsequent steps leading to the integral of tan²θ.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide feedback on the original poster's approach, particularly regarding the substitution for dx. The conversation reflects an ongoing exploration of the integral's transformation and the implications of the substitution made.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of trigonometric substitution and its effects on the integral's evaluation. There is an emphasis on ensuring that all substitutions and transformations are correctly applied.

frosty8688
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1. ∫\frac{\sqrt{x^{2}-4}}{x} dx, x=2secθ, dx=2secθtanθ dθ



2. \sqrt{x^{2}-a^{2}},sec^{2}θ-1=tan^{2}θ



3. \sqrt{x^{2}-4}=\sqrt{4sec^{2}θ-4}=\sqrt{4(1+tan^{2}θ)-4}=\sqrt{4tan^{2}θ}=2\left|tanθ\right|=2tanθ;∫\frac{\sqrt{x^{2}-4}}{x}dx=∫\frac{2tanθ}{2secθ}dθ=\frac{ln\left|secθ\right|}{ln\left|secθ+tanθ\right|}+C=ln\left|secθ\right|-ln\left|secθ+tanθ\right|+C;∫\frac{\sqrt{x^{2}-4}}{x}dx=ln\left|\frac{x}{2}\right|-ln\left|\frac{x}{2}+\frac{\sqrt{x^{2}-4}}{2}\right|+C=ln\left|x\right|-ln\left|2\right|-ln\left|x+\sqrt{x^{2}-4}\right|+ln\left|2\right|+C. Please tell me what I did wrong.
 
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What happened to the substitution for dx in terms of dθ?
 
I see what you mean. Ok, here is what I have after the dx substitution: \int\frac{\sqrt{x^{2}-4}}{x}dx = \int\frac{2tanθ}{2secθ}2secθtanθdθ = 2\int tan^{2}θdθ
 
Which is: 2\int(sec^{2}θ-1)dθ = 2(tanθ-θ)+C
 

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