Trigonometric Substitutions

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Trigonometric Substitutions
Trigonometric Substitutions
Trigonometric Substitutions

Introduction to this topic[edit | edit source]

This page is dedicated to teaching problem solving techniques, specifically for trigonometric substitution. For other integration methods see other sources.

The format is aimed at first introducing the theory, the techniques, the steps and finally a series of examples which will make you further skilled.

Assumed Knowledge[edit | edit source]

  • Basic Differentiation
  • Basic Integration Methods
  • Pythagoras Theorem

Theory of Trigonometric Substitutions[edit | edit source]

This area is covered by the wikipedia article W:Trigonometric substitution and the wikibooks module B:Calculus/Integration techniques/Trigonometric Substitution. On this page we deal with the practical aspects.
We begin with the following as is described by the above sources.

Trigonometric substitution is a special case of simplifying an intergrand which has a specific form. We will first outline these forms and where they came from.

Pythagoras Theorem[edit | edit source]

We should be familiar with pythagoras theorem for a right angled triangle.

From this familiar definition we can derive other definitions. eg.

By expanding upon this theory we can come up with other relationships which help us with integration.

Definition 1 Sine Substitution - containing a2x2[edit | edit source]

From the diagram
















Definition 2 Tan Substitution - containing a2 + x2[edit | edit source]

From the diagram















Definition 3 Sec Substitution - containing x2a2[edit | edit source]

From the diagram





















Summary[edit | edit source]

Definition 1 Sine Definition 2 Tan Definition 3 Sec

This table summarises the definitions that we identify in special integral cases and how they relate to trig identities.

Technique[edit | edit source]

Integration 1 Sine Substitution - containing a2x2[edit | edit source]

We begin with the integral

Step 1 - Identify Trigonometric Substitution Type
We identify this integral as a trigonometric sine substitution.

Step 2 - Identifying Identities for Substitution



or

Step 3 - Substituting Identities into Integral
Now we solve the integral using the following steps

Step 5 - Final Substitution of

Example 1 - Sec substitution[edit | edit source]

Evaluate


Solution


Step 1 - Identify Trigonometric Substitution Type


Step 2 - Identifying Identities for Substitution




or






























Step 3 - Substituting Identities into Integral

















Step 5 - Final Substitution of





The Definite Integral[edit | edit source]