Integral of sin^2(x) with respect to x

It is impossible to dirctly integrate sin^2(x) so we must transform it into something that can be integrated. Trigonometry can be used to do this. Recall the identity cos(2x) = cos^2(x) - sin^2(x) and cos^(x) + sin^2(x) = 1. These 2 indentities can be combined through a little bit of algebra to give; sin^2(x) = 0.5 -  0.5cos(2x). Now this is an expression which can be directly integrated! 

The integral of 0.5 - 0.5cos(2x)  is simply 0.5x -0.25sin(2x) 

OF
Answered by Orlando F. Maths tutor

13900 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would you solve the inequality x^2-2x-8 >= 0?


find the definite integral between limits 1 and 2 of (4x^3+1)/(x^4+x) with respect to x


Differentiate the function f(x) = x^2 * e^2x with respect to x


A curve has equation y = (x-1)e^(-3x). The curve has a stationary point M. Show that the x-coordinate of M is 4/3.


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