Integral with substitution method

In summary, the substitution method for integrals is a technique used to simplify the integration of a complex function by substituting a new variable for the original variable. The substitution variable is chosen based on the original function and the steps for using the substitution method involve identifying the variable, substituting it into the function, finding the derivative, and solving the integral using basic integration techniques. This method is most useful for functions with polynomial, trigonometric, exponential, or logarithmic functions, but it may not work for all functions and can sometimes result in a more complex integral. Other integration techniques should be considered if the substitution method is not effective.
  • #1
Yankel
395
0
Hello

I need to solve

\[\int \sqrt{x^{3}+4}\cdot x^{5}dx\]

using the substitution method.

I did

\[u=x^{3}+4\]

but I got stuck with it.

thanks!
 
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  • #2
I would try integration by parts, where:

\(\displaystyle u=x^3\,\therefore\,du=3x^2\,dx\)

\(\displaystyle dv=x^2\sqrt{x^3+4}\,dx\, \therefore\,v=\frac{2}{9}\left(x^3+4 \right)^{\frac{3}{2}}\)

Can you proceed?
 
  • #3
Your original idea of substitution will also work. Letting
$u = x^3+4$

we have

$du = 3 x^2 dx$
$x^3 = u-4$

so
$\int \sqrt{x^3+4} \; x^5 \;dx = \int \sqrt{x^3+4} \; x^3 \cdot x^2 \;dx = \frac{1}{3} \int \; \sqrt{u} (u-4) \; dx$

and you can probably take it from there...
 

FAQ: Integral with substitution method

1. What is the substitution method for integrals?

The substitution method for integrals is a technique used to simplify the integration of a complex function by substituting a new variable for the original variable. This makes the integration process easier and more manageable.

2. How do you choose the substitution variable?

The substitution variable is chosen based on the original function. The goal is to choose a variable that will cancel out or simplify parts of the original function, making it easier to integrate. Generally, the substitution variable is chosen to be the innermost function in the original function.

3. What are the steps for using the substitution method?

The steps for using the substitution method for integrals are as follows:

  1. Identify the substitution variable by looking at the original function.
  2. Substitute the variable into the original function.
  3. Find the derivative of the substitution variable.
  4. Substitute the derivative into the integral.
  5. Simplify and solve the integral using basic integration techniques.

4. When should the substitution method be used?

The substitution method is most useful when the original function contains a combination of polynomial, trigonometric, exponential, or logarithmic functions. It can also be used when the original function has a complicated form that makes it difficult to integrate using other methods.

5. Are there any limitations to the substitution method?

Yes, there are some limitations to the substitution method. It may not work for all functions, especially those that involve multiple variables or special functions. In some cases, it may also result in a more complex integral that is difficult to solve. It is important to consider other integration techniques if the substitution method does not seem to be effective.

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