Chapter 5: Problem 62
The substitution \(u=\tan x\) gives $$ \int \sec ^{2} x \tan x d x=\int u d u=\frac{u^{2}}{2}+C=\frac{\tan ^{2} x}{2}+C $$ The substitution \(u=\sec x\) gives $$ \int \sec ^{2} x \tan x d x=\int u d u=\frac{u^{2}}{2}+C=\frac{\sec ^{2} x}{2}+C $$ Can both integrations be correct? Give reasons for your answer.
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understand the Problem
Using the First Substitution (\(u = \tan x\))
Using the Second Substitution (\(u = \sec x\))
Evaluate Consistency
Conclusion
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Substitution Method
Here's how it works:
- Choose a substitution for a part of the integral. This new variable replaces a function or part of the function, making the expression easier to integrate.
- Differentiate the substitution to find the differential, allowing you to express the integral entirely in terms of the new variable.
- Substitute back to the original variable after integrating, if necessary, to express your final answer using the original terms.
In the given problem, we used substitutions such as \(u = \tan x\) and \(u = \sec x\). However, it's crucial to remember that each substitution must lead to a correct and equivalent expression for the integral. Hence, checking the validity of results is key in using the substitution method effectively.
Trigonometric Integrals
When evaluating trigonometric integrals, consider:
- The form of the function: Is it in a format that simplifies using trigonometric identities or substitutions?
- Which substitution makes the integral easier? For example, letting \(u = \tan x\) or \(u = \sec x\) can simplify certain integrals involving \(\sec^2 x \tan x\).
Additionally, understanding these functions' derivatives and antiderivatives allows for substitutions that naturally arise from these relationships—like how the derivative of \(\tan x\) is \(\sec^2 x\). Using these relationships effectively can simplify solving integrals involving trigonometric functions.
Antiderivatives
When calculating antiderivatives with substitutions:
- Properly identify the substitution so that the integral becomes a simple, well-known form.
- After integration with the new variable, revert to the original variable setup to find the final antiderivative.
- Ensure consistency by checking if the antiderivative you've found satisfies the original integral condition.
In the exercise, substitutions involving \(u = \tan x\) and \(u = \sec x\) were explored. The former worked correctly, providing \(\frac{\tan^2 x}{2} + C\), while the latter incorrectly led to \(\frac{\sec^2 x}{2} + C\), revealing a mistake.
Calculus Problem-Solving
Steps to solve a calculus problem with integration may include:
- Understand the problem and identify suitable substitution possibilities.
- Check the consistency of your substitution by differentiating back to see if it equates to the original integrand.
- Verify your solution graphically or by differentiation to validate if your antiderivative is correct.
Missteps can occur, as seen with the incorrect attempt to substitute \(u = \sec x\) initially. The key is to persistently test and validate solutions for consistency, ensuring that the correct approach is used and that results are logically sound.