Trouble with Integrating \cos^{5}7x\sin7x Using Substitution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral of the function \(\cos^{5}(7x)\sin(7x)\) with a focus on finding an appropriate substitution method to simplify the integration process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use substitution by letting \(u = \cos^{5}(7x)\) but finds the resulting expression unhelpful. Some participants suggest considering multiple substitutions, while others propose a simpler approach with a single substitution of \(\cos(7x) = u\).

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various substitution strategies being explored. Participants are sharing differing opinions on the number of substitutions needed, indicating a productive exchange of ideas without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the integral being structured in a way that might lead to simplifications, suggesting that the problem may have been designed with specific substitutions in mind. The original poster expresses uncertainty about their initial approach.

AStaunton
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trying to solve the following integral by substitution but having trouble:

[tex]\int\cos^{5}7x\sin7xdx[/tex]

I attempted to set [tex]u=\cos^{5}7x[/tex] and ended up with (by chain rule...which I hope is correct!):

[tex]du=-35\cos^{4}7x\sin7xdx[/tex]

This doesn't seem too helpful but can't think of a better substitution.

Any advice is appreciated

Andrew
 
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Try using two substitutions. Problems are often made to work out in the end, so try to think of what substitution(s) you can make so things will start to simplify nicely. What if you first set [tex]u = 7x[/tex] first? Beautiful things might start to happen. ;)
 
Well, there's need for only one substitution. [itex]\cos 7 x =u[/itex]
 
True that, I tend to break it down more. Though I suppose you can make the argument that the more you break it down the more you have to put together.
 

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