Proving an Integral Problem: Kepler's Law Derivation Help

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In summary, the conversation is about finding a way to solve a particular integral as part of a derivation of Kepler's laws. The suggestion is to use the Abel substitution, which involves completing the square and using trigonometric substitution. The conversation also mentions other methods, including Euler's substitutions and circular trigonometric substitutions, for solving similar integrals.
  • #1
TrifidBlue
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How can this be proved?

intg.jpg


I really in need to know it, as I'm working on a derivation of Kepler's laws, but I'm stuck at this point :confused::cry::frown: ...
Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
To solve the integral, I would have tried to complete the square in the denominator before using trig substitution. However, due to the fundamental theorem of calculus, you might find it easier to take the derivative of the right hand side. There does seem to be an arbitrary constant missing.
 
  • #3
This can be solved with the Abel substitution
[tex]t=(\sqrt{a+bx+cx^2})'[/tex]
 
  • #4
I wonder what's the easiest way :) Maybe you calculate and tell me ;)
Hint: For the Abel substitution calculate 4t^2Y and rearrange for Y (Y=a+bx+cx^2). Then solve with usual trig substitution. This also works if the square root is any other half-integer power.

In general for simple square roots you can also use
http://planetmath.org/encyclopedia/EulersSubstitutionsForIntegration.html
 
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  • #5
Case 1: [itex]b^2 - 4ac = 0[/itex] in which case the quadratic term is a perfect square of a linear term, so the integral is simply the log of that term.

Case 2: If [itex]b^2- 4ac > 0[/itex], then completing the square and a simple linear shift will make the integrand of the form [itex]\frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2 - a^2}}[/itex], and x= a cosh t makes that one come out immediately.

Case 3: If [itex]b^2-4ac < 0[/itex], completing the square and a linear shift makes the integrand of the form [itex]\frac{1}{\sqrt{x^2 + a^2}}[/itex], and x= a sinh t makes that one come out immediately.

Of course the appropriate circular trigonometric substitutions would work as well, but don't come out as quickly. For both of these integrals, the substitutions lead straight to [itex]\int dt[/itex]
 
  • #6
thank you very much Tedjn, Gerenuk and Gib Z
and extra thanks for you Gib Z for the details
 

FAQ: Proving an Integral Problem: Kepler's Law Derivation Help

What is Kepler's law and why is it important?

Kepler's law is a set of three laws that describe the motion of planets around the sun. It is important because it helped us to better understand the structure and movements of our solar system, and has contributed to our understanding of other planetary systems as well.

What is the integral problem in Kepler's law derivation?

The integral problem in Kepler's law derivation involves finding the area swept out by a planet in a certain amount of time, which is used to calculate the planet's orbital period.

How is the integral problem solved in Kepler's law derivation?

The integral problem is solved by using calculus to integrate the equation for the area of a sector of a circle over a certain time interval. This results in an equation that relates the orbital period to the semi-major axis of the planet's orbit.

What are some challenges in proving the integral problem in Kepler's law derivation?

Some challenges in proving the integral problem in Kepler's law derivation include dealing with non-uniform gravitational forces, accounting for the eccentricity of a planet's orbit, and accurately measuring and predicting the motion of planets over long periods of time.

How does proving the integral problem in Kepler's law derivation contribute to our understanding of the universe?

Proving the integral problem in Kepler's law derivation helps us to better understand the fundamental laws of motion and gravity, and how they apply to the movements of celestial bodies. This knowledge can then be applied to other planetary systems and even to the study of the universe as a whole.

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