Definite Integration
Improper Integral
Grade 12

Question:

<p>Evaluate \(\displaystyle\int_1^\infty\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}\) [JEE Advanced 2003]</p>
\pi/2
\pi
1
\pi/4

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept: Let x = sec \theta: dx = sec \theta \cdot tan \theta d\theta, \sqrt{x^2-1} = tan \theta. Integral \to \int_0^(\pi/2) d\theta = \pi/2.
<div class='solution'> <p>Let $x=\sec\theta$, $\sqrt{x^2-1}=\tan\theta$, $dx=\sec\theta\tan\theta\,d\theta$. Limits: $x=1\to\theta=0$; $x\to\infty\to\theta\to\pi/2$.</p> <p>$$\int_1^\infty\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}=\int_0^{\pi/2}\frac{\sec\theta\tan\theta\,d\theta}{\sec\theta\tan\theta}=\int_0^{\pi/2}d\theta=\boxed{\frac{\pi}{2}}$$</p> </div>
Correct Answer: A

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