Another simple trigonometric substitution gone wrong

In summary, to solve this integral, use the substitution u = x^2 + 4 and du = 2x dx, which will simplify the radical and make the integral easier to solve.
  • #1
tangibleLime
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Homework Statement



[tex]\int_0^1 \! 7x\sqrt{x^2+4} dx[/tex]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Noticing that the radical is of the form [tex]x^2 + a^2[/tex], I know to use [tex]a*tan\theta[/tex].

[tex]x = 2tan\theta[/tex]

[tex]dx = 2sec^2\theta d\theta[/tex]​
Then I simplified the radical to put it in terms of a trig function.

[tex]\sqrt{x^2+4}[/tex]

[tex]\sqrt{4tan^2\theta+4}[/tex]

I know that this should actually be + 1 instead of - 1, but since it's something squared, I assume it will be positive in the end.

[tex]\sqrt{4(tan^2\theta-1}[/tex]

[tex]2sec\theta[/tex]​
Putting this information back into my original integral and pulling out the 7...

[tex]7 \int 2tan\theta*2sec\theta*2sec^2\theta d\theta dx[/tex]​
Pulling out all of those 2's...

[tex]56 \int tan\theta*sec\theta*sec^2\theta d\theta[/tex]​
In trying to come up with a way to proceed, I figured I'd try a u-substitution. If I substitute [tex]u = sec\theta[/tex], then [tex]du = sec\theta*tan\theta d\theta[/tex] which would take care of most of the integral.

[tex]56 \int u^2 du[/tex]

[tex]56 \frac{u^3}{3}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{56sec^3\theta}{3} + C[/tex]​

I'm a little bit at a loss about how to continue from here, and it makes me feel like I did something wrong in the steps above. I now have an expression in terms of theta instead of x. I know that sec = 1/cos, and I assume sec^3 = 1/cos^3, but that cube is throwing me off. Any hints would be great, thanks.
 
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  • #2
Your trig substitution will work, but it's not the best way for this problem. I'll take a closer look in another post, but in the meantime, the best approach for this integral is an ordinary substitution.

u = x2 + 4, du = 2x dx
 

FAQ: Another simple trigonometric substitution gone wrong

What is a trigonometric substitution?

A trigonometric substitution is a technique used in calculus to simplify integrals involving trigonometric functions. It involves using a trigonometric identity to replace a variable in the integral with a trigonometric function.

How can a trigonometric substitution go wrong?

A trigonometric substitution can go wrong if the chosen substitution is not appropriate for the given integral or if the substitution is not carried out correctly.

What are some common mistakes when using trigonometric substitution?

Some common mistakes when using trigonometric substitution include choosing the wrong trigonometric function for the substitution, forgetting to substitute back in the original variable, and making errors in algebraic simplification.

How can I avoid making mistakes when using trigonometric substitution?

To avoid making mistakes, it is important to carefully examine the integral and choose an appropriate substitution. It is also helpful to double check all steps in the substitution process and make sure to substitute back in the original variable before evaluating the integral.

What should I do if I encounter a problem with trigonometric substitution?

If you encounter a problem with trigonometric substitution, it is helpful to review the fundamental trigonometric identities and make sure you understand how to apply them correctly. You can also consult with a math tutor or your instructor for additional guidance and practice problems.

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