Integral Of Cos 2x Sinx: The Trick That Simplifies It

Last Updated: Written by Isadora Leal Campos
integral of cos 2x sinx the trick that simplifies it
integral of cos 2x sinx the trick that simplifies it
Table of Contents

Integral of cos 2x sin x: Why Identities Matter Here

The integral $$\int \cos(2x)\sin x\,dx$$ resolves to a precise antiderivative using trigonometric identities, yielding a result that is both elegant and practical for educational leadership applications in Marist education. The primary query is answered: the integral evaluates to $$-\frac{1}{4}\cos x - \frac{1}{12}\cos 3x + C$$. This result emerges from a systematic use of product-to-sum identities or, equivalently, expressing $$\cos(2x)$$ in terms of $$\cos x$$ and applying standard integration techniques. Understanding this calculation reinforces rigorous math pedagogy we advocate for in Catholic and Marist schools across Brazil and Latin America, where mathematical literacy supports evidence-based curriculum design and student achievement.

Derivation Overview

One concise pathway starts with a product-to-sum identity: $$\cos(2x)\sin x = \tfrac{1}{2}[\sin(3x) - \sin x]$$. Integrating term-by-term gives a straightforward antiderivative: $$\int \cos(2x)\sin x\,dx = \tfrac{1}{2}\int \sin(3x)\,dx - \tfrac{1}{2}\int \sin x\,dx = -\tfrac{1}{6}\cos(3x) + \tfrac{1}{2}\cos x + C$$. After simplification, this is equivalent to $$-\frac{1}{4}\cos x - \frac{1}{12}\cos(3x) + C$$. This linkage between identities and integration showcases precise mathematical reasoning-a value we emphasize in Marist pedagogy as a model for disciplined inquiry.

Alternative Path: Substitution Route

Alternatively, rewrite $$\cos(2x)$$ as $$1 - 2\sin^2 x$$ and proceed with substitution. Let $$u=\sin x$$, $$du=\cos x\,dx$$. The integral becomes $$\int (1-2u^2)\,du$$ after adjusting for the differential, leading to the same antiderivative up to a constant. This dual approach demonstrates how multiple mathematical tools converge on a singular correct result, mirroring how diverse educational strategies converge on holistic student outcomes in Marist schools.

integral of cos 2x sinx the trick that simplifies it
integral of cos 2x sinx the trick that simplifies it

Key Takeaways for Educators

  • Identity importance: Product-to-sum identities unlock otherwise complex integrals and illuminate the interconnectedness of trigonometric relationships.
  • Method flexibility: Different pathways yield the same answer,Providing teachers with robust explanations for varied student learning styles.
  • Practice value: Regular exposure to such problems strengthens procedural fluency and conceptual understanding in the mathematics curriculum we advocate.
  1. State the integrand: $$\cos(2x)\sin x$$.
  2. Choose a viable identity: $$\cos(2x)\sin x = \tfrac{1}{2}[\sin(3x) - \sin x]$$.
  3. Integrate term-by-term: $$-\frac{1}{6}\cos(3x) + \frac{1}{2}\cos x + C$$.
  4. Optionally simplify to the equivalent form: $$-\frac{1}{4}\cos x - \frac{1}{12}\cos(3x) + C$$.

Illustrative Data Table

Step Description Result
1 Apply product-to-sum identity to the integrand $$\tfrac{1}{2}[\sin(3x) - \sin x]$$
2 Integrate each term separately $$-\tfrac{1}{6}\cos(3x) + \tfrac{1}{2}\cos x$$
3 Simplify expression $$-\tfrac{1}{4}\cos x - \tfrac{1}{12}\cos(3x) + C$$

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful tips and tricks for Integral Of Cos 2x Sinx The Trick That Simplifies It

[Answer]?

The antiderivative is $$-\frac{1}{4}\cos x - \frac{1}{12}\cos(3x) + C$$. This result can be obtained via the product-to-sum identity or by substitution, illustrating the consistency of trigonometric methods in integral calculus.

[Answer]?

Product-to-sum identities simplify products of trig functions into sums, enabling straightforward integration term-by-term. This approach highlights how identities support efficient problem-solving in calculus, a skill we champion in Marist mathematics education.

[Answer]?

Yes. Each follows from appropriate identities (product-to-sum or angle addition formulas), leading to solvable integrals and reinforcing a consistent, disciplined approach to trigonometric integration essential for student proficiency in STEM tracks.

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Editorial Strategist

Isadora Leal Campos

Isadora Leal Campos is an editorial strategist and former correspondent for O Estado de S. Paulo's education desk. She earned a BA in Journalism from USP and a specialization in Latin American Education Narratives from the University of Chile.

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