Show that the integral ∫(1-2 sin^2⁡x)/(1+2sinxcosx) dx = (1/2) ln2 between the limits π/4 and 0. [5 marks]

First, we use the trig identities: cos2x=cos^2x-sin^2x, cos^2x+sin^2x=1 and sin2x=2sinxcosx to transform the integral to ∫(cos2x)/(1+sin2x)dx.
We know that ∫f'(x)/f(x)dx = ln|f(x)|+c, so we let f(x)=1+sin2x. f'(x) can then be found by differentiating f(x), so f'(x) = 2cos2x.
So we multiply top and bottom of the fraction by 2, and take out a factor of 1/2 to express the integral as: (1/2)∫(2cos2x)/(1+sin2x)dx, which can be integrated using the above rule to get (1/2)ln|1+sin2x|+ c.
We then substitute the limits given, to get (1/2)ln(1+1)-(1/2)ln(1+0) = (1/2)ln(2).

AC
Answered by Abby C. Maths tutor

16168 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

differentiate 4x^3 + 3x^2 -5x +1


A block of mass 5kg is on a rough slope inclined at an angle of 30 degrees to the horizontal, it is at the point of sliding down the slope. Calculate the coefficient of friction between the block and the slope.


How do you integrate y = 4x^3 - 5/x^2?


Differentiate tan^2(x) with respect to x


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning