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Ch. 8 - Techniques of Integration
Hass - Thomas' Calculus 15th Edition
Hass15th EditionThomas' CalculusISBN: 9780137616077Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 8, Problem 8.3.40

Evaluate the integrals in Exercises 33–52.
∫ eˣ sec³(eˣ) dx

Verified step by step guidance
1
Recognize that the integral is of the form \(\int e^{x} \sec^{3}(e^{x}) \, dx\). Notice that the argument of the secant function is \(e^{x}\), which suggests a substitution involving \(e^{x}\).
Let \(u = e^{x}\). Then, compute the differential \(du = e^{x} dx\), which implies \(du = u \, dx\) or equivalently \(dx = \frac{du}{u}\).
Rewrite the integral in terms of \(u\): substitute \(e^{x} = u\) and \(dx = \frac{du}{u}\), so the integral becomes \(\int u \sec^{3}(u) \cdot \frac{du}{u} = \int \sec^{3}(u) \, du\).
Now, focus on evaluating \(\int \sec^{3}(u) \, du\). Recall that integrals of odd powers of secant can be handled by splitting \(\sec^{3}(u)\) as \(\sec(u) \cdot \sec^{2}(u)\) and using the identity \(\sec^{2}(u) = 1 + \tan^{2}(u)\).
Use the substitution \(t = \tan(u)\), so that \(dt = \sec^{2}(u) du\). Express the integral in terms of \(t\) and integrate accordingly, then substitute back to \(u\) and finally back to \(x\) to express the answer in terms of the original variable.

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Key Concepts

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

Integration by Substitution

Integration by substitution involves changing variables to simplify an integral. It is useful when the integral contains a composite function, allowing you to rewrite the integral in terms of a new variable, making it easier to solve.
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Substitution With an Extra Variable

Trigonometric Identities for Secant

Understanding identities involving secant, such as expressing sec³(x) in terms of sec(x) and tan(x), helps in breaking down complex trigonometric integrals. These identities facilitate rewriting the integral into simpler parts that are easier to integrate.
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Integration of Powers of Secant

Integrating powers of secant functions often requires specific techniques, like using reduction formulas or rewriting powers in terms of sec and tan. Familiarity with these methods is essential to evaluate integrals involving sec³(x) or higher powers.
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Example 6: Integral of Secant & Cosecant