6. Evaluate ∫ cos x √(100 − sin² x) dx using tables after performing the substitution u = sin x.
Table of contents
- 0. Functions7h 52m
- Introduction to Functions16m
- Piecewise Functions10m
- Properties of Functions9m
- Common Functions1h 8m
- Transformations5m
- Combining Functions27m
- Exponent rules32m
- Exponential Functions28m
- Logarithmic Functions24m
- Properties of Logarithms34m
- Exponential & Logarithmic Equations35m
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- 1. Limits and Continuity2h 2m
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- 5. Graphical Applications of Derivatives6h 2m
- 6. Derivatives of Inverse, Exponential, & Logarithmic Functions2h 37m
- 7. Antiderivatives & Indefinite Integrals1h 26m
- 8. Definite Integrals4h 44m
- 9. Graphical Applications of Integrals2h 27m
- 10. Physics Applications of Integrals 3h 16m
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- 12. Techniques of Integration7h 39m
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- 16. Parametric Equations & Polar Coordinates7h 58m
7. Antiderivatives & Indefinite Integrals
Indefinite Integrals
Problem 8.R.1e
Textbook Question
Explain why or why not. Determine whether the following statements are true and give an explanation or counterexample.
e. The best approach to evaluating ∫(x³ + 1)/(3x²) dx is to use the change of variables u = x³ + 1.

1
Step 1: Begin by analyzing the integral ∫(x³ + 1)/(3x²) dx. Notice that the numerator (x³ + 1) and the denominator (3x²) suggest a potential simplification using substitution.
Step 2: Consider the substitution u = x³ + 1. Compute the derivative of u with respect to x: du/dx = 3x². Rearrange this to express dx in terms of du: dx = du/(3x²).
Step 3: Substitute u = x³ + 1 and dx = du/(3x²) into the integral. The numerator (x³ + 1) becomes u, and the denominator (3x²) cancels out with the dx substitution. This simplifies the integral to ∫u * (1/(3x²)) * (du/(3x²)).
Step 4: Evaluate whether the substitution fully simplifies the integral. In this case, the substitution u = x³ + 1 does not eliminate the x² term in the denominator, which remains problematic for direct evaluation. This suggests that the substitution u = x³ + 1 is not the best approach.
Step 5: Conclude that the substitution u = x³ + 1 is not ideal for this integral. A better approach might involve simplifying the integrand directly or exploring alternative substitutions that fully eliminate x from the integral.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Integration Techniques
Integration techniques are methods used to find the integral of a function. Common techniques include substitution, integration by parts, and partial fractions. Understanding these methods is crucial for determining the most efficient way to evaluate an integral, as different functions may require different approaches.
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Substitution Method
The substitution method is a technique used in integration where a new variable is introduced to simplify the integral. By substituting u for a function of x, the integral can often be transformed into a more manageable form. This method is particularly useful when the integrand contains a composite function, making it easier to integrate.
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Evaluating Integrals
Evaluating integrals involves finding the antiderivative of a function, which can be a straightforward or complex process depending on the function's form. The goal is to determine the area under the curve represented by the function. Understanding how to evaluate integrals accurately is essential for solving problems in calculus, especially when determining the validity of statements regarding integration methods.
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