How Long to Reach Speed of Light?

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In summary, the problem involves finding the time it would take for a spaceship to reach the speed of light, given its acceleration rate of 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2) m/s from time t = 0. This can be solved by integrating the rate function and using the substitution method to simplify the integral.
  • #1
JakePearson
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if a spaceship accelerates, from restat time t = 0, at a rate of 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2) m/s at time t, calculate in years to 1 significant figure how long it would take to reach the speed of light?

my attempt

speed of light = 3.0 x 10^8 m/s
integrate the rate function 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2) from t = 0, to the t we are looking for

integrating 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2)

using integration by parts;

let u = 1 + t^2, then du = 2t dt

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE
 
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  • #2
Before you go at an integral using integration by parts, you should always see if a simpler substitution will work. What you have shown is exactly the substitution I would use (your work does not show that you are doing integration by parts).

Using this substitution, what does your new integral look like?
 
  • #3
JakePearson said:
if a spaceship accelerates, from restat time t = 0, at a rate of 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2) m/s at time t, calculate in years to 1 significant figure how long it would take to reach the speed of light?

my attempt

speed of light = 3.0 x 10^8 m/s
integrate the rate function 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2) from t = 0, to the t we are looking for

integrating 2t / sqrt(1 + t^2)

using integration by parts;

let u = 1 + t^2, then du = 2t dt

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE

That is NOT "integration by parts". Perhaps you should review that.
You want to integrate
[tex]\int \frac{2t dt}{\sqrt{1+ t^2}}[/tex]
and you say [itex]u= 1+ t^2[/itex] and [itex]du= 2tdt[/itex]. Okay, doesn't it make sense to replace the "2tdt" in the integral by du and the "[itex]1+ t^2[/itex] in the integral by u?
You might want to remember that [itex]1/\sqrt{a}= a^{-1/2}[/itex].
 
  • #4
cheers, my mistake
 

FAQ: How Long to Reach Speed of Light?

What is an integration problem?

An integration problem is a mathematical problem that involves finding the integral of a function. This involves finding the area under the curve of a function between two points on the x-axis.

Why are integration problems important?

Integration is an important concept in mathematics and is used in many fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. It allows us to calculate quantities such as displacement, velocity, and acceleration, and is essential for solving real-world problems.

What are the different methods for solving integration problems?

There are several methods for solving integration problems, including the substitution method, integration by parts, and using trigonometric identities. The choice of method depends on the complexity of the function and the desired accuracy of the solution.

How do I know when to use which method for solving an integration problem?

To determine which method to use, you should first try to simplify the function by factoring, expanding, or using trigonometric identities. Then, you can identify which method is most suitable based on the form of the function. It may also be helpful to consult a table of integration formulas.

Are there any tips for solving integration problems more efficiently?

Some tips for solving integration problems more efficiently include practicing regularly, understanding the properties of different types of functions, and being familiar with common integration techniques. It is also helpful to break down the problem into smaller, manageable parts and to always check your answer by differentiating it.

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