How do you integrate tan^2(x)?

This is a question which tests your knowledge of how to use trigonometric identities as well as integration. As there is no way to immediately integrate tan^2(x) using well known trigonometric integrals and derivatives, it seems like a good idea would be writing tan^2(x) as sec^2(x) - 1.

Now, we can recognise sec^2(x) as the derivative of tan(x) (you can prove this using the quotient rule and the identity sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1), while we get x when we integrate 1, so our final answer is tan(x) - x + c.

WL
Answered by Warren L. Maths tutor

110843 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

If f(x)=(4x^2)-(8x)+3, find the gradient of y=f(x) at the point (0.5,0)


Parlami di cosa hai fatto durante le vacanze di Natale.


If I had an equation with both 'x' and 'y' present, how would I find the gradient?


Evaluate the integral ∫(sin3x)(cos3x)dx (C4 Integration)


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