What Is the Best Method to Integrate dx/(x*sqrt(9+16x^2))?

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The discussion centers on finding the indefinite integral of dx/(x*sqrt(9+16x^2)). Participants suggest avoiding integration by parts due to its complexity and recommend using trigonometric substitution instead. The integral can be rewritten to facilitate substitution, specifically letting u = 9 + 16x^2 and factoring out a 3 from the square root. A substitution involving tan(θ) is proposed to simplify the integration process. Overall, the focus is on utilizing trigonometric identities and substitutions for an effective solution.
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Homework Statement




indefinite integral: dx/(x*sqrt(9+16x^2))


Homework Equations



Trig. Substitutions or parts??

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using integration by parts but its got pretty messy...it also resembles a tan trig substitution, but it's within a square root. I'm stumped and can't figure out where to start...

Can anyone help?

Thanks!
 
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Don't use integration by parts. Rewrite the problem as
\int\frac{xdx}{x^2\sqrt{9+ 16x^2}}
and let u= 9+ 16x^2.
 
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Factor a 3 out of \sqrt{9 +16x^2}

\displaystyle \sqrt{9 +16x^2}=\sqrt{9\left(1+\frac{16x^2}{9}\right)}=3 \sqrt{1+\frac{16x^2}{9}}=3 \sqrt{1+\left( \frac{4x}{3} \right)^2 }

We know that 1+tan2(θ) = sec2(θ) , so let 4x/3 = tan(θ), (4/3)dx = sec2(θ)dθ.

(I'm slow at typing, so HallsofIvy responded while I was typing. He usually has better ideas than I do. Good luck!)
 
Last edited:
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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