How to Solve this Partial Fraction Decomposition Problem?

In summary, the given expression can be written as a sum of three simpler fractions and by substituting different values for $x$ and solving the resulting equations, the values of the unknowns can be determined.
  • #1
shamieh
539
0
\(\displaystyle \int \frac{7dx}{x(x^2+8)^2}\)

so I am thinking its going to be set up like: \(\displaystyle \frac{A}{x} + \frac{Bx + C}{x^2 + 8} + \frac{Dx + E}{(x^2 + 8)^2}\)
Practice problem I'm stuck on.
so I cleared fractions and got A = 7/64 , b = -7/64 and C = 105/64 and now I'm lost... can anyone work this problem for me so I can see what's going on? Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
shamieh said:
\(\displaystyle \int \frac{7dx}{x(x^2+8)^2}\)

so I am thinking its going to be set up like: \(\displaystyle \frac{A}{x} + \frac{Bx + C}{x^2 + 8} + \frac{Dx + E}{(x^2 + 8)^2}\)
Practice problem I'm stuck on.
so I cleared fractions and got A = 7/64 , b = -7/64 and C = 105/64 and now I'm lost... can anyone work this problem for me so I can see what's going on? Thanks in advance.

Hi shamieh, :)

I think your value for C is not correct. However the other two values are correct.

\[\frac{7dx}{x(x^2+8)^2}=\frac{A}{x} + \frac{Bx + C}{x^2 + 8} + \frac{Dx + E}{(x^2 + 8)^2}\]

\[\Rightarrow A(x^2+8)^2+(Bx+C)(x^2+8)x+(Dx+E)x=7\]

Substituting different values for $x$ you can get three simultaneous equations (assuming you already found the values A and B correctly) which can be used to find the remaining unknowns, $C,\,D\mbox{ and }E$.
 

FAQ: How to Solve this Partial Fraction Decomposition Problem?

What is Partial Fraction Decomposition?

Partial Fraction Decomposition is a method used in mathematics to simplify a rational function into smaller, simpler fractions. It involves breaking down a fraction with a polynomial in the numerator and denominator into multiple fractions with linear or quadratic polynomials in the numerator and simpler polynomials in the denominator.

Why is Partial Fraction Decomposition important?

Partial Fraction Decomposition is important because it allows us to solve integrals and differential equations that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. It also helps to simplify complex algebraic expressions and make them easier to work with.

How do you perform Partial Fraction Decomposition?

To perform Partial Fraction Decomposition, you first need to factor the denominator of the rational function into linear and/or quadratic terms. Then, for each distinct factor, you set up an equation with unknown coefficients and solve for them. Finally, you combine the fractions with the determined coefficients to get the simplified form.

What are the different types of Partial Fraction Decomposition?

There are two main types of Partial Fraction Decomposition: proper and improper. In proper decomposition, the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator. In improper decomposition, the degree of the numerator is equal to or greater than the degree of the denominator.

Is Partial Fraction Decomposition always possible?

No, Partial Fraction Decomposition is not always possible. It can only be used for rational functions where the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator. If this condition is not met, then the function cannot be decomposed using this method.

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