How do I integrate cos^2(x)?

The key to solving any integral of this form is to use the cosine rule:

cos(2x) = cos2(x) - sin2(x) = 2cos2(x) - 1 = 1 - 2sin2(x)

All of these forms are really helpful when solving problems such as this, and it's great if you can remmeber them, though if you get stuck in an exam, they can all be derived from the addition formulae that are probably on your fomula sheet!

So, using the above idenities, we know that:

2cos2(x) - 1 = cos(2x)

2cos2(x) = cos(2x) + 1

cos2(x) = (cos(2x) + 1)/2

So instead, we perform the integral of (cos(2x) + 1)/2, which we already know how to do.

=> (sin(2x))/4 + x/2

DF
Answered by Daniel F. Maths tutor

39862 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the equation of the tangent to the circle (x-3)^2 + (y-4)^2 = 13 that passes through the point (1,7)


What is greater e^pi or pi^e?


Differentiation basics: What is it?


A curve is described by the equation x^3 - 4y^2 = 12xy. a) Find the points on the curve where x = -8. b) Find the gradient at these points.


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