How Can U-Substitution Simplify Trigonometric Integrals?

In summary, for the first integral, the correct approach would be to use ∫f'(x)/f(x) dx = ln(|f(x)|) + c and for the second integral, using u-substitution may not be the best method and it would be better to use the fact that 1/sin^2(x) = csc^2(x) with the integral of -cot(x) + c.
  • #1
jtt
16
0

Homework Statement


use substitution to evaluate the integral


Homework Equations


1)∫ tan(4x+2)dx
2)∫3(sin x)^-2 dx

The Attempt at a Solution


1) u= 4x+2 du= 4
(1/4)∫4 tan(4x+2) dx
∫(1/4)tan(4x+2)(4dx)
∫ (1/4) tanu du
(1/4)ln ltan(u)l +c

2) u=sinx du= cosx or u=x du = 1 ?
 
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  • #2
jtt said:

Homework Statement


use substitution to evaluate the integral

Homework Equations


1)∫ tan(4x+2)dx
2)∫3(sin x)^-2 dx

The Attempt at a Solution


1) u= 4x+2 du= 4
(1/4)∫4 tan(4x+2) dx
∫(1/4)tan(4x+2)(4dx)
∫ (1/4) tanu du
(1/4)ln ltan(u)l +c

2) u=sinx du= cosx or u=x du = 1 ?

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


For your first integral, you evaluated ∫tan(u)du incorrectly.
∫tan(u) du = ∫sin(u)/cos(u) du
= -∫-sin(u)/cos(u) du
So now solve for this integral, given that ∫f'(x)/f(x) dx = ln(|f(x)|) + c

For your second, I'm not sure why you would use 'u' substitution,
because 1/sin^2(x) = csc^2(x), which has the integral of -cot(x) + c.

I'll leave that to you to find a way with u-substitution.
 
Last edited:

FAQ: How Can U-Substitution Simplify Trigonometric Integrals?

How do I know when to use u-substitution with trig functions?

The general rule for using u-substitution with trig functions is when you have an integral that involves a trig function and its derivative. In other words, if the function inside the integral sign is a trig function and the function's derivative is also present in the integral, you can use u-substitution to simplify the integral.

How do I choose the right substitution variable (u) when using u-substitution with trig?

The substitution variable (u) should be chosen so that when you take the derivative of u, it will cancel out with the rest of the integral. In general, a good choice for u is a part of the integral that is not already present or can be easily manipulated to match the derivative.

Can I use u-substitution with trig functions for definite integrals?

Yes, u-substitution with trig functions can also be used for definite integrals. The limits of integration will need to be changed to match the substitution variable (u).

Are there any special cases when using u-substitution with trig functions?

Yes, there are a few special cases when using u-substitution with trig functions. One is when the integral involves both a trig function and its inverse, in which case a trig identity may need to be used. Another case is when the integral involves a trig function raised to an odd power, in which case the substitution may need to be modified.

How can I check if my u-substitution with trig is correct?

To check if your u-substitution with trig is correct, simply take the derivative of u and see if it matches the function inside the integral. If it does, then the substitution was successful. You can also plug in the original function and limits of integration into the integral with the substituted variable u and see if it matches the original integral.

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