MI
Answered byMolly I.Maths Tutor

Show that the integral of tan(x) is ln|sec(x)| + C where C is a constant.

First, recall that tan(x) can be rewritten in terms of sine and cosine.

tan(x) = sin(x)/cos(x)

The rephrasing of our question suggests that we should try the substitution rule of integration.

We should substitute u=cos(x), since then du = -sin(x) dx and so sin(x) dx = -du

So the integral of tan(x) = the integral of sin(x)/cos(x) = the integral of -1/u = - ln|u| +C = - ln|cosx| +C

Now, - ln|cos(x)| = ln(|cos(x)|-1) = ln(1/|cos(x)|) = ln|sec(x)|

Therefore, the integral of tan(x) is ln|sec(x)| + C

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the sum and product of the roots of the equation 2x^2+3x-5=0


f(x) = e^(sin2x) , 0 ≤ x ≤ pi (a). Use calculus to find the coordinates of the turning points on the graph of y = f(x)


The point P lies on the curve C: y=f(x) where f(x)=x^3-2x^2+6x-12 and has x coordinate 1. Find the equation of the line normal to C which passes through P.


A curve f(x,y) is defined by sin(3y)+3ye^(-2x)+2x^2 = 5. Find dy/dx


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