Integrating (sin(x))^6: A Quick Solution

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In summary, to integrate (sin(x))^6, you can use integration by parts or trigonometric identities to simplify the function and then use known integration formulas to solve for the exact solution.
  • #1
Void123
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Homework Statement



I just can't crack the integral of (sin(x))^6 for some reason.

What is the exact solution to this? This is not really a homework question, as an immediate reference to an integral table would be sufficient. But I just need it right away. Thanks.



Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



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  • #2
Use integration by parts repeatedly.
 
  • #3
Or use trig identities. [itex]cos(2x)= cos^2(x)- sin^2(x)= 1- 2sin^2(x)[/itex] so [itex]sin^2(x)= (1/2)(1- cos(2x))[/itex]. Then [itex]sin^6(x)= (sin^2(x))^3= (1/2)^3(1- cos(2x))^3[/itex][itex]= (1/8)(1- 3cos(2x)[/itex][itex]+ 3cos^2(2x)+ cos^3(2x))[/itex].

The integral of 1- 3cos(2x) is straightforward. The integral of [itex]cos^3(2x)[/itex] can be done by writing it as [itex]cos^3(2x)= cos(2x)(1- sin^2(2x))[/itex] and using the substitution u= sin(2x). The integral of [itex]cos^2(2x)[/itex] can be done by using the trig identity [itex]cos^2(2x)= (1/2)(1+ cos(4x))[/itex].
 

FAQ: Integrating (sin(x))^6: A Quick Solution

What is the purpose of integrating (sin(x))^6?

The purpose of integrating (sin(x))^6 is to find the area under the curve of the function (sin(x))^6. This can be useful in many applications, such as calculating work done in physics problems or finding probabilities in statistics.

Is there a specific method for integrating (sin(x))^6?

Yes, there is a specific method for integrating (sin(x))^6. It involves using the power-reducing formula for sine and then applying the power rule for integration.

What are the steps for integrating (sin(x))^6?

The steps for integrating (sin(x))^6 are:
1. Rewrite (sin(x))^6 using the power-reducing formula for sine
2. Simplify the resulting expression
3. Apply the power rule for integration
4. Substitute back in the original variable
5. Add a constant of integration, if necessary.

Can (sin(x))^6 be integrated using other methods?

Yes, (sin(x))^6 can also be integrated using the substitution method or the trigonometric substitution method. However, the power-reducing formula method is the most efficient and straightforward approach for this particular function.

Are there any real-world applications of integrating (sin(x))^6?

Yes, there are several real-world applications of integrating (sin(x))^6. For example, it can be used to find the work done by a variable force, calculate the probability of a particle being in a specific energy state in quantum mechanics, or determine the power output of an alternating current (AC) circuit in electrical engineering.

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