Definite Integral: $\int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\frac{\cos x}{(a+b\cos x)^2}dx$

In summary, by using a substitution suggested in a given link, the integral from 0 to pi/2 of cosx over (a+b cosx)^2 simplifies to an integral from 0 to 1 of a rational function. Further simplification leads to a final result of 2/(a+b) + 4b/(a-b) sqrt((a+b)/(a-b)) tan^-1 sqrt((a-b)/(a+b)), and deriving this result is left for the reader.
  • #1
juantheron
247
1
$\displaystyle \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\frac{\cos x}{(a+b\cos x)^2}dx$
 
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  • #2
jacks said:
$\displaystyle \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\frac{\cos x}{(a+b\cos x)^2}dx$

With the substitution sugggested in...

http://www.mathhelpboards.com/f10/defeinite-integral-2038/#post9364

... You arrive to an integral from 0 to 1 of a rational function...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
  • #3
chisigma said:
With the substitution sugggested in...

http://www.mathhelpboards.com/f10/defeinite-integral-2038/#post9364

... You arrive to an integral from 0 to 1 of a rational function...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$

In order to simplify the task You can observe that, setting...

$\displaystyle f(b)= \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}} \frac{d x}{a + b\ \cos x}$ (1)

... is...

$\displaystyle \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}} \frac{\cos x}{(a + b\ \cos x)^{2}}\ dx = - f^{\ '} (b)$ (2)

Applying to (1) the substitution suggested we arrive to the integral...

$\displaystyle f(b)= 2\ \int_{0}^{1} \frac{1 + t^{2}}{(a+b) + (a-b)\ t^{2}}\ dt$ (3)

... and after some computation [that I strongly reccomand to control (Thinking)...] You obtain...

$\displaystyle f(b)= \frac{2}{a+b} + 4 \frac{b}{a-b}\ \sqrt{\frac{a+b}{a-b}}\ tan^{-1} \sqrt{\frac{a-b}{a+b}}$ (4)

Deriving the (4) is left to You...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
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FAQ: Definite Integral: $\int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\frac{\cos x}{(a+b\cos x)^2}dx$

What is a definite integral?

A definite integral is a mathematical concept used to calculate the area under a curve between two specified points. It is represented by the symbol ∫ and has a lower and upper limit, which define the interval over which the area is to be calculated.

What is the significance of the limits in a definite integral?

The limits in a definite integral indicate the starting and ending points for the area calculation. They determine the range of values for which the function will be integrated and the final result will depend on these limits.

How do you solve a definite integral with trigonometric functions?

To solve a definite integral with trigonometric functions, you can use various techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or trigonometric identities. In this particular integral, the substitution method would be most appropriate.

What is the purpose of the constant "a" and "b" in the given definite integral?

The constants "a" and "b" represent the parameters of the given function. They affect the shape, position, and behavior of the graph of the function and can be adjusted to fit different scenarios or real-life applications.

Can definite integrals have negative values?

Yes, definite integrals can have negative values. This can occur when the area under the curve is below the x-axis, resulting in a negative area. However, the final result of a definite integral is always a positive value as the negative sign is taken into account during the calculation.

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