Solve trig integral by substitution

In summary, we can solve this integral using the substitution u = sin(x) and then integrating with respect to u and back substituting for x to get the final result of (sin^7(x)/7)-(sin^9(x)/9)+C.
  • #1
karush
Gold Member
MHB
3,269
5
this is supposed to be solved with U substitution
$\displaystyle
\int \sin^6(x)\cos^3(x)
$
since \(\displaystyle \cos^3(x)\) has an odd power then
$\displaystyle
\int \sin^6(x)\left(1-\sin^2(x)\right)\cos(x) dx
$
then substitute \(\displaystyle u=\sin(x)\) and \(\displaystyle du=cos(x)dx\)
$
\int u^6 \left(1-u^2\right) du
$
so if ok so far
 
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  • #2
Yes, that looks good. Like you, I would seek an integral of the form:

\(\displaystyle \int f\left(\sin(x) \right)\,\cos(x)\,dx\)

and then use the substitution:

\(\displaystyle u=\sin(x)\,\therefore\,du=\cos(x)\,dx\)

and so we have:

\(\displaystyle \int f(u)\,du\)

So, now just integrate with respect to $u$, then back substitute for $u$ to express the anti-derivative in terms of $x$.
 
  • #3
so from
$\int u^6 \left(1-u^2\right) du$
by distribution

$\int \left(u^6-u^8\right) du$

$\left(\frac{u^7}{7}-\frac{u^9}{9}\right)$

$\frac{sin^7(x)}{7}-\frac{sin^9(x)}{9}+C$

W|A gave a much more complicated answer than this??
 
Last edited:
  • #4
karush said:
so from
$\int u^6 \left(1-u^2\right) du$
by distribution

$\int \left(u^6-u^8\right) du$

$\left(\frac{u^7}{7}-\frac{u^9}{9}\right)$

$\frac{sin^7(x)}{7}-\frac{sin^9(x)}{9}+C$

W|A gave a much more complicated answer than this??

Your result is correct. W|A probably applied power reduction formulas to get their result. With trigonometric integrals, there are usually many ways to represent the result. If you are unsure of your result, differentiate it to ensure you get the original integrand.
 

FAQ: Solve trig integral by substitution

What is the process for solving a trigonometric integral by substitution?

The process for solving a trigonometric integral by substitution involves identifying a substitution, usually in the form of u = g(x), that will simplify the integral into a form that can be easily integrated. This typically involves using trigonometric identities or algebraic manipulation to rewrite the integral in terms of u.

What types of substitutions are commonly used for solving trigonometric integrals?

Some common substitutions used for solving trigonometric integrals include u = sin(x), u = cos(x), u = tan(x), and u = sec(x). The specific substitution used will depend on the form of the integral and the trigonometric functions present in it.

How do I know when to use a trigonometric substitution for solving an integral?

Trigonometric substitutions are typically used when the integral involves expressions containing trigonometric functions, such as sin(x), cos(x), or tan(x). It is also useful to look for patterns in the integral, such as a difference of squares or a sum/difference of cubes, that can be simplified using a trigonometric substitution.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving a trigonometric integral by substitution?

One common mistake is forgetting to substitute back in terms of x at the end of the problem. It is also important to be careful with algebraic manipulations and to check for extraneous solutions when solving for u. Additionally, it is important to be familiar with trigonometric identities and to use them correctly.

Are there any tips or tricks for solving tricky trigonometric integrals by substitution?

One tip is to try multiple substitutions if the first one you try does not result in a simpler integral. It can also be helpful to draw a right triangle and label the sides and angles to visualize the substitution. Finally, practice and familiarity with trigonometric functions and identities can make the process easier and more intuitive.

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