Why is this happening (trig subs)

  • Thread starter frasifrasi
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In summary, the conversation is about evaluating the integral 1/x*sqrt(t^2 - 1) using substitutions and converting the limits of integration. The final result involves arcsec, but there is confusion on how to get to that point. The original integral may have had a typo involving both x and t.
  • #1
frasifrasi
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Dor the integral 1/x*sqrt(t^2 - 1)

After i do the substitutions, it comes out to be sec(x)tan(x)/sec(x)tan(x), so evertything cancels out and the integral evaluated is just x (or theta), but what do I sub theta for when evaluating the integral?

I know this is supposed to be arcsec, but I am not visualizing how I get to that point.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
two variables ... which variable are you integrating with respects to?
 
  • #3
theta...

I guess I have to change the limits of integration.
 
  • #5
yes, letting x= sec[itex]\theta[/itex]

If i let sqrt(2) = sec[itex]\theta[/itex] , I am looking for arcsec(sqrt(2)) , which is pi/ 4 since cos (pi/4) = 1/sqrt(2), so I would convert the limits. I gorgot that was required since we are mostly doing indefinite integrals.
 
  • #6
frasifrasi said:
Dor the integral 1/x*sqrt(t^2 - 1)

After i do the substitutions, it comes out to be sec(x)tan(x)/sec(x)tan(x), so evertything cancels out and the integral evaluated is just x (or theta), but what do I sub theta for when evaluating the integral?
I know this is supposed to be arcsec, but I am not visualizing how I get to that point.
Thank you.

rocophysics said:
two variables ... which variable are you integrating with respects to?

frasifrasi said:
theta...
I guess I have to change the limits of integration.
No that wasn't the question- your original integral involves both x and t. Was that an typo? Did you mean dx/(x*sqrt(x^2-1)) or dt/(t*sqrt(t^2-1))?
 
  • #7
was typo.
 

FAQ: Why is this happening (trig subs)

Why do we use trigonometric substitutions?

Trigonometric substitutions are used to simplify integrals involving expressions with radicals or higher powers of trigonometric functions. By substituting a trigonometric function for a variable, we can often transform a complicated integral into a simpler one that can be easily evaluated.

How do you choose which trigonometric substitution to use?

The choice of trigonometric substitution depends on the form of the integral. A common method is to look for expressions involving the Pythagorean identity or double angle formulas and then substitute accordingly. It may also be helpful to consider the powers and types of trigonometric functions involved.

Can any integral be solved using trigonometric substitutions?

No, not all integrals can be solved using trigonometric substitutions. They are most useful for integrals involving radicals or higher powers of trigonometric functions. In some cases, other integration techniques such as u-substitution or integration by parts may be more effective.

How do you know when to use a trigonometric substitution?

A good indication that a trigonometric substitution may be useful is when we have expressions involving radicals or higher powers of trigonometric functions. Additionally, if we can rewrite the integral in terms of a trigonometric function, this may also suggest the use of a trigonometric substitution.

Are there any tips for using trigonometric substitutions?

Some tips for using trigonometric substitutions include carefully choosing the substitution to make the integrand simpler, being aware of the limitations and restrictions of trigonometric functions, and being familiar with common trigonometric identities and formulas. It may also be helpful to practice and gain experience with solving integrals using these substitutions.

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