Use the substition u = cos(x) to find the indefinite integral of -12sin(x)cos^3(x) dx

We are given the substitution to use, so the first step is to differentiate "u" with respect to x

du/dx = -sin(x)

Now, to replace the "dx" in the original integrand with something in terms of "du", we rearrange the differential:

dx = -1/sin(x) du

We substitute this into the original expression we are integrating; this gives: 

S -12sin(x)cos3(x) (-1/sin(x)) du

Let's do some simplifying here; the negative signs cancel, and so does sin(x):

S 12cos3(x) du

Now, simplify again using u=cos(x); this gives:

S 12u3 du

This is a simple C1-level integration; integrating with respect to "u" and adding a constant of integration, we get:

3u4 + c

For our final answer, replace "u" with cos(x):

3cos4x) + c

AH
Answered by Arnab H. Maths tutor

8716 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

If (m+8)(x^2)+m=7-8x has two real roots show that (m+9)(m-8)<0 where m is an arbitrary constant


Given that y = 4x^3 -1 + 2x^1/2 (where x>0) find dy/dx.


The line l1 has equation 2x + 3y = 26 The line l2 passes through the origin O and is perpendicular to l1 (a) Find an equation for the line l2


Find the perpendicular bisector passing through the stationary point of the curve y=x^2+2x-7.


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