How to Factor Constants Out of Trigonometric Integrals?

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In summary: But if you're not familiar with Wolfram alpha, it's not the end of the world. Just enter integrate and then the function and it will take care of the rest.The way I find easiest is 'everywhere I see a t, replace it with t/w'.
  • #1
mattyc33
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I am just having problems factoring the constants out of the integral:

∫Fsinwt dt

where F and w are constants.

I can obviously take F right out of the integral but I forget how to take the w out of the sin, and I can't seem to find anywhere on the internet that will tell me how to do so.

If anyone could quickly help me that would be great. Thanks.

EDIT: If anyone could explain to me how to enter an integral like this into wolfram alpha so I can have steps that would be just as good.
 
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  • #2
What is the final porpose of doing that?
You could use the half-angle formula:

sin(2x)=2sinxcosx

for particular 'w', but I don't think that there is a general (resonable) formula for any w. The only thing that comes to my mind is using de Moivre's theorm:

(cosx+isinx)^w=(coswx+isinwx)=(cosx+isinx)^w, and now you can multiply out the bracket and take the imaginary part what wil leave u with:

sinwx=(powers of sinx)
 
  • #3
You don't need to factor out the w. You really just have [tex]F\intsinwtdt[\tex]. You just need to integrate sinwt. So you'll get -coswt, and accounting for the w and F gives (-Fcoswt)/w. For wolfram alpha just type in integrate and then the function
 
  • #4
Yeah, but I think that he has some hidden purpose in doing that trick :P It's pretty simple to integrate, so propably he needs it in that form.
 
  • #5
The way I find easiest is 'everywhere I see a t, replace it with t/w'. Of course, that includes in the bounds of the integral.
 
  • #6
mattyc33 said:
I am just having problems factoring the constants out of the integral:

∫Fsinwt dt

where F and w are constants.

I can obviously take F right out of the integral but I forget how to take the w out of the sin, and I can't seem to find anywhere on the internet that will tell me how to do so.

If anyone could quickly help me that would be great. Thanks.

EDIT: If anyone could explain to me how to enter an integral like this into wolfram alpha so I can have steps that would be just as good.

u = wt, so dt = du/w. The integral becomes (F/w)∫sinudu = -(F/w)coswt + C

Not acquainted with Wolfram alpha.
 
  • #7
In other words, even if the constants are abstractly depicted through letters, you must still be able to apply the elementary methods like part integration or substitution.
 
  • #8
Well, I still think that the problem was not to simply evaluate the integral, which is easy, but to evaluate it by a given method (why else struggle with dragging that constant out of the sin?).
 

FAQ: How to Factor Constants Out of Trigonometric Integrals?

What is a "Quick Problem with an integral"?

A "Quick Problem with an integral" refers to a mathematical problem that involves finding the area under a curve, or the accumulation of a quantity, using integration. It is often referred to as a "quick" problem because it can be solved using simple integration techniques.

What are the common types of problems involving integrals?

The most common types of problems involving integrals are finding the area under a curve, finding the volume of a solid, and calculating the work done by a force. Other types of problems may involve finding the average value of a function, or finding the length of a curve.

What is the process for solving a "Quick Problem with an integral"?

The process for solving a "Quick Problem with an integral" involves identifying the function to be integrated, determining the limits of integration, and applying integration techniques such as the power rule, substitution, or integration by parts. Once the integration is complete, the final result is evaluated at the specified limits to obtain the solution.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving a "Quick Problem with an integral"?

Some common mistakes to avoid when solving a "Quick Problem with an integral" include forgetting to include the constant of integration, mixing up the limits of integration, and making errors in the integration process such as forgetting to apply the chain rule. It is also important to carefully check the final solution to ensure it makes sense in the context of the problem.

How can I improve my skills in solving "Quick Problems with integrals"?

To improve your skills in solving "Quick Problems with integrals", it is important to practice regularly and familiarize yourself with different integration techniques. You can also seek help from a tutor or attend workshops to learn new strategies for solving integrals. Additionally, understanding the underlying concepts and applications of integrals can also aid in solving problems more efficiently.

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