Reduction formula instead of using identities for trigonometric integration?

In summary, the conversation is discussing the process of integrating trigonometric functions to higher powers by breaking them down into identities. Two different methods are shown, one using a reduction formula and the other using a Pythagorean identity. The two methods ultimately result in the same solution.
  • #1
aleksbooker1
5
0
This is one of the example problems in my book to show how to deal with integrating trigonometric functions to higher powers, by breaking them down into identities.

\(\displaystyle =\int cos^5x dx\)
\(\displaystyle =\int (cos^2x)^2cos^x dx \)
\(\displaystyle =\int (1-sin^2x)^2*d(sin x)\)
\(\displaystyle =\int (1-u^2)^2 du\)
\(\displaystyle =\int 1-2u^2 + u^4 du\)
\(\displaystyle =u-\frac{2}{3}u^3 + \frac{1}{5}u^5\)
\(\displaystyle =sinx-\frac{2sin^3x}{3}+\frac{sin^5x}{5}+C\)

I tried to do the same problem, but with the reduction formula instead. I'm not sure if I did it right, since the result doesn't really look the same.

\(\displaystyle =\frac{\cos^2{x}\sin{x}}{5} + \frac{4}{5}\int \cos^3{x} dx\)
\(\displaystyle =\frac{1}{5}\cos^4{x}\sin{x} + \frac{4}{5}(\frac{1}{3}\cos^2{x}\sin{x} + \frac{2}{3}\int \cos{x})\)
\(\displaystyle =\frac{1}{5}\cos^4{x}\sin{x}+\frac{4}{15}\cos^2{x}\sin{x}+\frac{8}{15}\sin{x}\)
\(\displaystyle =\frac{3\cos^4{x}\sin{x}+4\cos^2{x}\sin{x}+8\sin{x}}{15}\)
\(\displaystyle =\frac{1}{15}\sin{x}(3\cos^4{x}+4\cos^2{x}+8)+C\)
 
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  • #2
Use the Pythagorean identity $\cos^2(x)=1-\sin^2(x)$ on your second form, then expand and collect like terms and you will find it is the same as your first form. :D
 

FAQ: Reduction formula instead of using identities for trigonometric integration?

1. What is a reduction formula for trigonometric integration?

A reduction formula is a mathematical technique used to simplify the integration of trigonometric functions. It involves rewriting a complex integral in terms of a simpler integral, which can then be solved using known or standard integration techniques.

2. When is it beneficial to use a reduction formula instead of trigonometric identities for integration?

A reduction formula is particularly useful when the integral involves multiple trigonometric functions, making it difficult to use traditional trigonometric identities. It can also be used to solve integrals with power functions, such as sin^n(x) or cos^n(x).

3. How do you derive a reduction formula for a given integral?

To derive a reduction formula, you need to use integration by parts and then use trigonometric identities to simplify the resulting integral. This process is repeated until the integral can be expressed in terms of a simpler integral or a known value.

4. Can reduction formulas be used for all types of trigonometric integrals?

Reduction formulas can be applied to a wide range of trigonometric integrals, but they are most effective for integrals involving powers of sine and cosine functions. They may not be as useful for integrals involving tangent, cotangent, or secant functions.

5. Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using reduction formulas for trigonometric integration?

One limitation of reduction formulas is that they can be time-consuming and require a lot of algebraic manipulation. They also may not provide the most efficient solution for simpler integrals that can be solved using basic trigonometric identities. Additionally, they may not always yield an exact solution, as some integrals may require numerical methods for approximation.

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