What is the Integration by Parts Method for Solving Integrals?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral \(\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx\) and the application of the integration by parts method to solve it.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply integration by parts by selecting \(u = x^3\) and \(dv = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx\), leading to a complex expression. Some participants question the effectiveness of this choice and suggest alternative selections for \(u\) and \(dv\). Others explore the implications of choosing \(u = x^2\) and discuss the resulting complications with integrating \(\arcsin(x)\).

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in exploring different choices for \(u\) and \(dv\) in the integration by parts method. There is a recognition of the challenges posed by the original selections, and some guidance is offered regarding alternative approaches. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to navigate the complexities of the problem without reaching a consensus on a single method.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of confusion regarding the integration of \(\arcsin(x)\) and the potential use of trigonometric substitution, highlighting the need for clarity on integration techniques. Additionally, the original poster expresses uncertainty about the effectiveness of their approach.

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Homework Statement



[tex]\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx[/tex]

I have to use integration by parts on the above integral.

Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]u=x^3[/tex]
[tex]du=3x^2dx[/tex]

[tex]dv=\frac{1}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx[/tex]
[tex]v=arcsin (x)[/tex]

[tex]=x^3arcsin (x)-3\int\ x^2arcsin (x)dx[/tex]

[tex]u=arcsin (x)[/tex]
[tex]du=\frac{1}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx[/tex]

[tex]dv=x^2dx[/tex]
[tex]v=\frac{1}{3}x^3[/tex]

[tex]\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx[/tex]=[tex]=x^3arcsin (x)-3[x^2 arcsin(x)-\frac{1}{3} \int\ \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx[/tex]

[tex]\int\frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}}dx[/tex][tex]=x^3arcsin (x)-3x^2 arcsin(x) + \int\ \frac{x^3}{\sqrt{1-x^2}} dx[/tex]

Here I was hoping I could move the integral over but, given the signs, that isn't going to work. Any tips on what course I should take instead?
 
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That isn't going to work because your 2nd application of by parts essentially undoes your first application. Can you think of choosing u and v in another way?
 
Choosing u = x2 works for integration by parts. This leaves you with a somewhat complicated dv, but one that you can integrate to get v, using an ordinary substitution.
 
So setting [tex]u=x^2[/tex] leaves you with [tex]dv=arcsin(x)dx[/tex]. I can see what v would equal by looking at a table of integrals, but I have no idea how I would go about integrating [tex]arcsin(x)[/tex] on my own. I was thinking maybe using Trig. Substitution but I wouldn't really know how to go about it.
 
No, u = x2, and dv = xdx/sqrt(1 - x2). I'm talking about starting from the original problem.
 
Sorry, I made a mistake.:(
 
Last edited:
Alright I got it, thanks for your help.
 

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