Use a substitution to compute the integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a calculus problem involving integration techniques, specifically focusing on the use of substitution to compute an integral. The original poster shares their attempts at solving the integral using partial fractions and expresses uncertainty about their results.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the validity of the original poster's approach, particularly questioning the accuracy of their partial fraction decomposition. Suggestions are made to use the substitution \( \sqrt{x} = u \) to simplify the integral. There are discussions about determining \( dx \) in terms of \( u \) and ensuring proper substitution throughout the integration process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the substitution method and clarifying the need for correct variable changes. There is no explicit consensus yet, as various interpretations and approaches are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of correctly substituting for \( dx \) and emphasize the need for clarity in the integration process. The original poster's attachment is referenced but not included in the discussion.

Neek 007
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Homework Statement


Going over past exam problems, stuck on this one. Attached


Calc 2, topics include for this exam integration techniques, such as partial fractions, improper integrals, trig sub, and series.

Question reads: Use a substitution to compute: (see attached)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I tried partial fractions integration.

1. dx/x(1 + sqrt(x)

2. A/x + B/(1+sqrt(x) = 1/x(1+sqrt(x))

Solved for A, A= 1 B = -1


Resulted in:

1/x - 1/1+sqrt(x)

I integrated each part:


ln(abs(x)) - (ln(abs(1+sqrt(x)))*(1/2sqrt(x))


I am not sure if this was correct.
 

Attachments

  • daum_equation_1394583054024.png
    daum_equation_1394583054024.png
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\frac{1}{x(1+\sqrt{x}) } is not equal to 1/x - 1/(1+sqrt(x)).

Use the substitution √x = u first.


ehild
 
u = sqrt(x)
du = 1/2sqrt(x)

x = u^2

∫1/(u^2 + u^3)

∫1/(u^2(1+u))

Then I use partial fractions decomposition

A= 1
B = -1

∫1/u^2 - ∫1/(1+u)

substitute in u

∫1/x - ∫1/(1+sqrt(x))


ln(abs(x)) - ln(abs(1+sqrt(x)))

Answer: ln((x/(1+sqrt(x)))
 
Neek 007 said:
u = sqrt(x)
du = 1/2sqrt(x)

That is wrong...

Neek 007 said:
x = u^2

Determine dx in terms of u and du. Without dx or du, it is not an integral!

ehild
 
Did you forget to sustitute for dx?

Make it easier for you: Define ##x=u^2 \implies dx=?##
 
so how does this sound:2u/(u^2(1+u)) du

Then I complete the partial fraction decomposition?
 
Neek 007 said:
so how does this sound:


2u/(u^2(1+u)) du

Then I complete the partial fraction decomposition?

Simplify by cancelling first, then do the partial fraction decomposition.
 

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