Integrating hyperbolic functions

Integrating hyperbolic functions

  • Hyperbolic functions are analogues of the standard circular functions (such as sin, cos, and tan), but are applied to hyperbolic geometry instead of circular geometry.

  • The indefinite integrals of the hyperbolic functions sinh(x), cosh(x), and tanh(x) are simple and analogous to those of their circular counterparts.

  • The integral of sinh(x) is cosh(x) + C, where C is the constant of integration. This is similar to the integral of sin(x), which is -cos(x) + C.

  • The integral of cosh(x) is sinh(x) + C, which parallels the integral of cos(x), being sin(x) + C.

  • The integral of tanh(x) is ln cosh(x) + C, which differs from the integral of tan(x).
  • To integrate coth(x) and sech(x), one has to use some identities or change the form of the function before integration.

  • The integral of sech^2(x) is tanh(x) + C. This requires the use of trigonometric identities or substitution to be solved.

  • The integral of sech(x)tan(x) is -sech(x) + C, which is another example of an integral that requires the use of identities or substitution to be solved.

  • Co-functions (such as csch(x) and sech(x)) and their integrals can be derived using the definitions of the hyperbolic functions and methods such as integration by parts or substitution.

  • Practice problem-solving skills using a variety of sources, to ensure full understanding of the different methods used to integrate hyperbolic functions.

  • Familiarity with the properties and graphs of hyperbolic functions can help to visualise the problem and select the appropriate method of integration.

  • Routine practice is key to fully understand how to integrate hyperbolic functions, as often the method of integration will not be immediately clear.

  • Understanding when and how to use substitution will significantly help with integrating more complex hyperbolic functions.