Solve Integral: $\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx$

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In summary, An integral is a mathematical concept that represents the area under a curve in a graph and is used to find the total value or quantity of something. To solve an integral, you need to use integration techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or trigonometric identities. The notation $\int$ represents the integral symbol, which is used in mathematics to denote integration and is derived from the Latin word "integralis" meaning "whole" or "entire". The square root in the integral represents the inverse function of the tangent function and is important in solving this integral because it allows us to find the area under the curve of the square root of the tangent function. To check if your solution to the integral is correct, you can take
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j_madison
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[tex]
\int \sqrt{tan(x)} dx
[/tex]

this problem has me stumped. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. thanks
 
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  • #2
I remember doing this a while back. It's pretty long-winded. Anyway, here's a push in the right direction:

Use the substitution [itex]u=\sqrt{\tan(x)}[/itex], then:
[tex]u^2=\tan(x)[/itex]
[tex]2u\,du=\sec^2(x)\,dx[/tex]
[tex]2u\,du=1+\tan^2(x)\,dx[/tex]
[tex]dx = \frac{2u}{1+u^4}\,du[/tex]
 
  • #3


Hi there,

Solving integrals can be a bit challenging, but with some practice and understanding of the different techniques, it can become easier. In this case, we have an integral of the form $\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx$.

One approach to solve this integral is by using the substitution method. Let's assume $u = \tan(x)$, then $du = \sec^2(x) dx$. We can rewrite the integral as:

$$\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx = \int \sqrt{u} \ \frac{du}{\sec^2(x)} = \int u^{\frac{1}{2}} \cos^2(x) \ du$$

Now, we can use the trigonometric identity $\cos^2(x) = \frac{1}{2} (1 + \cos(2x))$ to rewrite the integral as:

$$\int u^{\frac{1}{2}} \cos^2(x) \ du = \frac{1}{2} \int u^{\frac{1}{2}} (1 + \cos(2x)) \ du$$

Using the power rule for integration, we get:

$$\frac{1}{2} \int u^{\frac{1}{2}} (1 + \cos(2x)) \ du = \frac{1}{2} \left(\frac{2}{3} u^{\frac{3}{2}} + \frac{1}{2} \sin(2x) \right) + C$$

Substituting back $u = \tan(x)$, we finally get:

$$\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx = \frac{1}{3} \tan^{\frac{3}{2}}(x) + \frac{1}{4} \sin(2x) + C$$

And that's it! We have successfully solved the integral. I hope this helps and good luck with your future math problems!
 

FAQ: Solve Integral: $\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx$

What is an integral?

An integral is a mathematical concept that represents the area under a curve in a graph. It is used to find the total value or quantity of something.

How do I solve an integral?

To solve an integral, you need to use integration techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or trigonometric identities. You also need to have a good understanding of the fundamental principles of integration and practice solving different types of integrals.

What is the meaning of the notation $\int$?

The notation $\int$ represents the integral symbol, which is used in mathematics to denote integration. It is derived from the Latin word "integralis" meaning "whole" or "entire".

What is the significance of the square root in the integral $\int \sqrt{\tan(x)} \ dx$?

The square root in the integral represents the inverse function of the tangent function, which is denoted by $\sqrt{\tan(x)}$. It is important in solving this integral because it allows us to find the area under the curve of the square root of the tangent function.

How can I check if my solution to the integral is correct?

To check if your solution to the integral is correct, you can take the derivative of your answer and see if it matches the original function in the integral. You can also use online integration calculators to verify your solution.

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