Some integrals I just don't know how to do

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In summary: Integral of sin squared x: where the sin^2theta= 1/2(1-cos(2X)) and you should use the quadratic formula: sin^2(x+y)−sin^2(x)cos^2(y)
  • #1
1MileCrash
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Homework Statement



Knowing what I do (U-Substitution, beginning Integration by Parts) what would you do for these?

(ln t)^2
(sin t)^2

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



All I have been able to do is change these to (ln t)(ln t) and then try by parts, but I just end up with something more complicated.
 
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  • #2
For the second one, sin2(t) = (1 - cos(2t))/2.
For the first, I think you are on the right track with integration by parts. Can you show us what you've tried?
 
  • #3
You are correct with using integration by parts on (lnt)^2

Instead of splitting it into (lnt)(lnt) set your v=log^2(t) and du=dt and find dv and u then sub that into your integration by parts formula.

See how that goes. Keep in mind you will do integration by parts twice in this problem.
 
  • #4
KingBigness said:
You are correct with using integration by parts on (lnt)^2

Instead of splitting it into (lnt)(lnt) set your v=log^2(t) and du=dt and find dv and u then sub that into your integration by parts formula.

See how that goes. Keep in mind you will do integration by parts twice in this problem.

Sorry, I'm not sure I understand. Why would I set v to be log^2(t)? Did you mean u instead? Or dv? My understanding is that u and dv are the two parts that compose the actual function, while du and v are derivatives and integrals of the respective.
 
  • #5
Yes, I think KingBigness had his letters mixed around.
 
  • #6
Ok. For the first one I'm coming to:

(x/2) - (sin2x/4) + C

The homework marks this wrong, so I can only assume I'm messing up somewhere..
 
  • #7
1MileCrash said:
Sorry, I'm not sure I understand. Why would I set v to be log^2(t)? Did you mean u instead? Or dv? My understanding is that u and dv are the two parts that compose the actual function, while du and v are derivatives and integrals of the respective.

Sorry I just had them back to front...

u=log^2(t) dv=dt
du=2log(t)/t dt v=t

do integration by parts to the above and tell me what you get.
 
  • #8
For the second one I seem to have found myself in an infinite loop..

[itex]\int (lnt)^2 dt[/itex]

u = ln(t)^2
du = [(lnt)^2]/t dt

v = t
dv = dt

[itex]t(lnt)^2 - \int\frac{t(lnt)^2}{t} dt[/itex]


[itex]t(lnt)^2 - \int (lnt)^2 dt[/itex]

Which is just the same integral for the second term.
 
  • #9
[STRIKE]If I were you I would use my log laws to bring the ^2 out the front of the integral sign and again integrate the log(t) dt via integration by parts.[/STRIKE]
 
Last edited:
  • #10
Right, that changes everything. Thanks!

Why couldn't I have done that from the get-go, though?
 
  • #11
Because I lied to you. Ignore my last comment and let's go back to your working.

If you look at your du you have [(lnt)^2]/t. This is not correct.

The derivative of (lnt)^2 = 2[lnt]/t NOT [(lnt)^2]/t

therefore, you get ... t(lnt)2−∫2(lnt)dt

factor out the 2 because it is a constant and you get... t(lnt)2−2∫(lnt)dt

now integrate that by part.
 
  • #12
What I got mixed up and I think you got mixed up is thinking you can bring the power out the front. This is only the case if the variable is squared (ln(t^2)) and not the whole (lnt)^2
 
  • #13
Sorry for my confusing rant but I hope you got some help from it
 
  • #14
use integration by parts and you should be able to get the right answer. I just worked out the first question doing so. Now, I'm going to see what the second one will be using, but I think it's pretty much the same thing.
 
  • #15

FAQ: Some integrals I just don't know how to do

What are integrals?

Integrals are mathematical expressions that represent the area under a curve in a graph. They are used to solve problems in calculus and are fundamental to many areas of science and engineering.

Why are some integrals difficult to solve?

Some integrals can be difficult to solve because they involve complex functions or do not have a known analytical solution. In these cases, numerical methods or approximations may be used to find a solution.

How do I know which integration method to use?

The best integration method to use depends on the form of the integral. Some common methods include substitution, integration by parts, and trigonometric substitution. It is important to carefully examine the integral and try different methods to find the most efficient solution.

Can integrals be solved using a computer?

Yes, many integrals can be solved using computer software such as Wolfram Alpha or numerical methods implemented in programming languages. However, it is still important to have a basic understanding of integration techniques in order to properly interpret and use the results.

Are there real-world applications of integrals?

Yes, integrals have many real-world applications in physics, engineering, and other scientific fields. They are used to calculate areas, volumes, and rates of change, and are essential in solving problems involving motion, growth, and optimization.

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