Using integral to find length of curve

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To determine which of two curves is shorter, the user is struggling with the integral for the first curve. They have attempted to simplify the problem using trigonometric substitutions, specifically substituting tan(u), which led to sec^2(u) under the radical. However, they are unsure how to proceed with the integral of sec(x). A recommended method for integrating sec(x) involves multiplying by (sec(x) + tan(x)) and using a u-substitution. The discussion emphasizes finding effective strategies for solving the integral to compare the lengths of the curves.
a1ccook
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Homework Statement


Ok, the problem is there are two curves and I need to find out which is shorter. I can't find the first one so I'll just post that. The other should be easy after I learn how to get this one.

Homework Equations


The first curve is:
EQ.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution



I used the formula
EQ2.jpg
and worked it down to
EQ3.jpg
.

I've also seen some similar problems to this where people recommended trig substitutions. I tried substituting tan u in which gave me sec^2 u under the radical. If I go that route, I don't know the integral of sec or how you could carry on. The other way I thought you could do this was to just simplify (from the last picture I posted) and try to integrate that... but that would be rough. Any tips?
 
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The integral of sec(x) is usually done with the trick of multiplying the numerator and denominator by (sec(x) + tan(x)) followed by a u-substitution. Try it.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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