How Can You Integrate Cot^6(x) Without Using the Reduction Formula?

In summary, to find the integral of cot^6(x) without using the reduction formula, one can use the identity cot^2(x) = csc^2(x) - 1 and expand cot^6(x) to cot^4(x) * csc^2(x) - cot^4(x). Then, using the substitution method and the same trick again, the integral can be solved.
  • #1
rdioface
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Homework Statement


Find the integral of cot^6(x) without using the reduction formula.

Homework Equations


Potentially any trig identities involving the cotangent

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried splitting up the cot^6 in various ways such as cot^4*cot^2 and cot^2*cot^2*cot*2 but nothing has produced a solution, nor has doing a similar splitting and integrating by parts.
 
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  • #2
rdioface said:

Homework Statement


Find the integral of cot^6(x) without using the reduction formula.

Homework Equations


Potentially any trig identities involving the cotangent

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried splitting up the cot^6 in various ways such as cot^4*cot^2 and cot^2*cot^2*cot*2 but nothing has produced a solution, nor has doing a similar splitting and integrating by parts.
Use the identity cot^2(x) = csc^2(x) - 1 to write cot^6(x) as cot^4(x)(csc^2(x) - 1). Expanding this gives you cot^4(x) * csc^2(x) - cot^4(x).

In the first term, let u = cot(x), so du = -csc^2(x). For the second term, use the same trick again.
 
  • #3
Danke schoen!
 

FAQ: How Can You Integrate Cot^6(x) Without Using the Reduction Formula?

What is an easy integral?

An easy integral is a mathematical calculation that can be solved using basic integration techniques, such as substitution or integration by parts. These integrals typically have well-known solutions and do not require advanced mathematical knowledge to solve.

What are challenging conditions in integration?

Challenging conditions in integration refer to integrals that cannot be easily solved using basic integration techniques. These may include complex functions, improper integrals, or integrals with no known closed-form solution.

Why is solving integrals important in science?

Solving integrals is important in science because it allows us to find the area under a curve, which is essential for calculating quantities such as volume, mass, and energy. Integrals also help us understand the behavior of functions and can be used to model real-world phenomena.

How can one approach an easy integral?

Approaching an easy integral can be done by identifying the appropriate integration technique, such as substitution or integration by parts, and then following the steps to solve the integral. It is also helpful to have a good understanding of basic integration rules and properties.

What are some tips for solving integrals with challenging conditions?

Some tips for solving integrals with challenging conditions include breaking the integral into smaller, more manageable parts, using trigonometric identities or other algebraic manipulations, and using numerical methods if necessary. It is also important to have a solid understanding of advanced integration techniques and mathematical concepts.

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