Integration problem

Yankel

Active member
Hello all,

I am trying to integrate the function

f(x)=tan^5(x)/cos^2(x)

I can't figure out how to do it

the answer should be tan^6(x)/6 + C

thanks...

Random Variable

Well-known member
MHB Math Helper
If you make the substitution $u = \tan x$, then $\displaystyle du = \sec^{2} x \ dx = \frac{1}{\cos^{2} x} \ dx$.

Yankel

Active member
Thank you, your tip was great help.

I want to ask for help with one more integral, seems a waste to start a new thread, I need this:

$ln(x^{2}-1)$

I tried using integration in parts and got stuck with the integral of:

$\frac{2x^{2}}{x^{2}-1}$

Thanks !

Random Variable

Well-known member
MHB Math Helper
Using polynomial long division and then the method of partial fractions,

$$\frac{x^{2}}{x^{2}-1} = 1 + \frac{1}{x^{2}-1} = 1 + \frac{1}{2} \Big( \frac{1}{x-1} - \frac{1}{x+1} \Big)$$

Ackbach

Indicium Physicus
Staff member
I want to ask for help with one more integral, seems a waste to start a new thread,
Actually, that's exactly what we do prefer here at MHB. You can ask two questions per thread, but please do not start a new question in the middle of an existing thread.

Thanks!

Krizalid

Active member
I want to ask for help with one more integral, seems a waste to start a new thread, I need this:

$ln(x^{2}-1)$

I tried using integration in parts and got stuck with the integral of:

$\frac{2x^{2}}{x^{2}-1}$

Thanks !
$$\displaystyle \ln(x^2-1)=\ln(x+1)+\ln(x-1).$$