Skip to main content
Ch. 8 - Techniques of Integration
Hass - Thomas' Calculus 15th Edition
Hass15th EditionThomas' CalculusISBN: 9780137616077Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 8, Problem 8.PE.16

Evaluate the integrals in Exercises 9–28. It may be necessary to use a substitution first.
∫ [(4x) / (x³ + 4x)] dx

Verified step by step guidance
1
Start by simplifying the integrand \( \frac{4x}{x^3 + 4x} \). Notice that the denominator can be factored as \( x(x^2 + 4) \), so rewrite the integral as \( \int \frac{4x}{x(x^2 + 4)} \, dx \).
Cancel the common factor \( x \) in the numerator and denominator, assuming \( x \neq 0 \), to simplify the integrand to \( \int \frac{4}{x^2 + 4} \, dx \).
Recognize that the integral now has the form \( \int \frac{C}{x^2 + a^2} \, dx \), which is a standard integral. Recall the formula: \( \int \frac{dx}{x^2 + a^2} = \frac{1}{a} \arctan\left( \frac{x}{a} \right) + C \).
Apply the constant multiple rule to factor out the 4, so the integral becomes \( 4 \int \frac{1}{x^2 + 4} \, dx \). Here, \( a^2 = 4 \), so \( a = 2 \).
Use the formula to write the integral as \( 4 \times \frac{1}{2} \arctan\left( \frac{x}{2} \right) + C \), simplifying the constants as needed.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
1m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Integration by Substitution

Integration by substitution is a method used to simplify integrals by changing variables. It involves identifying a part of the integrand as a new variable, which transforms the integral into a simpler form. This technique is especially useful when the integral contains a composite function.
Recommended video:
04:27
Substitution With an Extra Variable

Simplifying Rational Expressions

Simplifying rational expressions involves factoring and reducing fractions to make integration easier. In this problem, factoring the denominator can reveal common factors with the numerator, allowing simplification before integrating. This step often clarifies the integral's structure.
Recommended video:
6:36
Simplifying Trig Expressions

Basic Integration Rules

Basic integration rules include integrating powers of x, constants, and sums or differences of functions. After substitution and simplification, applying these fundamental rules allows the evaluation of the integral. Familiarity with these rules is essential for solving integrals efficiently.
Recommended video:
06:07
Basic Rules for Definite Integrals