How can I solve this U-Substitution problem involving cos and square roots?

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In summary, the problem involves evaluating an indefinite integral of cos * (square root of t) / (square root of t) dt. The suggested approaches are to simplify the problem first and select U, or use the product rule first and select U, or cancel like terms first and integrate cos. The chosen approach is to substitute u = sqrt(t) and continue from there.
  • #1
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Hi,
For this integration by substitution problem, I am not sure whether I should:

1. simplify the problem first, then select U, find the derivative of U, then integrate

or

2. use the product rule first (on the upper part of the equation), then select U, then find the derivative of U, then integrate,

or

3. if I could just cancel like terms first, and be left with cos to integrate

Homework Statement



Evaluate the indefinite integral

Homework Equations



integral of cos * (square root of t) / (square root of t) dt

The Attempt at a Solution



integral of cos * (square root of t) / (square root of t) dt

integral of [cos t^(1/2)] / t^(1/2) dt

let U = cos t ^ 1/2

du = 1/2 (sin t 3/2) / (t 3/2)

Now I am really lost! What should I do?
 
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  • #2
Try t = x^2
 
  • #3
Count Iblis said:
Try t = x^2

Thanks for your reply Count Iblis. How does x come in this?
 
  • #4
It's just a variable name. If you prefer to use 'u' instead, make it t = u^2.
 
  • #5
Still trying to figure out what you mean by t = u^2.

Up to where was I right?
 
  • #6
t = u^2 means you're going to use the substitution u = sqrt(t) to evaluate your integral. I'm pretty sure you can continue from there
 

FAQ: How can I solve this U-Substitution problem involving cos and square roots?

What is U-Substitution in calculus?

In calculus, U-Substitution is a technique used to simplify and solve integrals involving complex functions. It involves substituting a variable for a more complicated expression to make it easier to integrate.

How do you know when to use U-Substitution?

You should use U-Substitution when you have an integral with a function inside another function, such as cos(x) or e^(x^2). You should also look for patterns or derivatives of the function inside the integral.

What is the process for U-Substitution involving cos?

The process for U-Substitution involving cos is as follows:

  1. Identify the inner function within the integral, in this case, cos(x).
  2. Choose a variable to substitute for this inner function, commonly denoted as u.
  3. Find the derivative of u, du/dx.
  4. Replace the inner function and its derivative with u and du/dx, respectively.
  5. Simplify the integral using the substitution u and du/dx.
  6. Integrate the simplified integral with respect to u.
  7. Replace u with the original inner function and solve for x.

Can you give an example of U-Substitution involving cos?

Yes, an example of U-Substitution involving cos is:

∫cos(x)dx

Let u = sin(x)

du/dx = cos(x)

Substituting for u and du/dx, the integral becomes:

∫cos(x)dx = ∫cos(x) * cos(x)dx = ∫udu = (1/2)u^2 + C = (1/2)sin^2(x) + C

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using U-Substitution involving cos?

Some common mistakes to avoid when using U-Substitution involving cos include:

  • Not choosing the correct variable to substitute for the inner function.
  • Forgetting to find the derivative of the substituted variable.
  • Not replacing all instances of the inner function with the substituted variable.
  • Incorrectly integrating the simplified integral with respect to the substituted variable.
  • Forgetting to replace the substituted variable with the original inner function in the final answer.
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