MH
Answered byMax H.Maths Tutor

How to integrate cos^2(x) ? ("cos squared x")

We can't integrate cos^2(x) as it is, so we want to change it into another form. We can easily do this using trig identities.

1) Recall the double angle formula:

cos(2x) = cos^2(x) - sin^2(x).

2) We also know the trig identity sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1, so combining these we get the equation cos(2x) = 2cos^2(x) -1.

3) Now, we can rearrange this to give: cos^2(x) = (1+cos(2x))/2.

4) So, we have an equation which gives cos^2(x) in a nicer form, which we can easily integrate using the reverse chain rule.

5) This eventually gives us an answer of:

x/2 + sin(2x)/4 +c

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you go about sketching a curve when all you are given is the equation?


Find the stationary points of the function f(x) = x^3+6x^2+2 and determine if they are local maximums or minimums.


Differentiate this equation: xy^2 = sin(3x) + y/x


Integrate the function y = 2x^2 + 3x + 8 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