# A quicker way to approach the indefinite integral $\int{\frac{x^3dx}{1+x^5}}$

Problem: Evaluate the integral $$\int{\frac{x^3dx}{1+x^5}}$$

Source: Given to me as a challenge. I can't seem to find a valid substitution for the integral. Also the way should be quick enough to apply in a timed test. I don't know the answer and I have almost given up. I called the challenger and he said that I can ask for help but not look up on Wolfram or any such website as it won't be a proper solution. I don't think it is solvable though :p

My try: Well, I have tried to get around by using many substitutions which make the thing more complicated than it already is. Also I'm looking for the QUICKEST way to approach this problem in case it happens to meet me on a test.

• Are you able to integrate functions of the form $\frac{1}{\alpha-x}$? Well, then apply a partial fraction decomposition. The integrand function is a meromorphic function with simple poles at $-1$ and at the primitive tenth roots of unity. Sep 18 '17 at 17:22
• Every rational function is integrable.
– user370967
Sep 18 '17 at 17:29
• $$\int \frac{x^3}{1+x^5}dx=\int\frac{\frac{1}{x^2}}{\frac{1}{x^5}+1}dx$$ Now let $\frac 1x=t$. To covert it to $$-\int \frac{1}{t^5+1}$$This is the first thought came to me, I too don't know how to proceed further. Sep 18 '17 at 17:39
• Nah I just phoned the guy and said I'm out...I already looked up the answer now and I was happy to see it...That guy just wasted 2 days of my life for this inhumane problem! Sep 18 '17 at 17:49
• @YourAverageEuler lol it dosent deserve even an hour of yout life Sep 18 '17 at 17:52

Hint: $1+x^5$ factors as $$(1+x)(1-x+x^2-x^3+x^4) = (1+x)(1 + ax + x^2)(1 + bx + x^2)$$ for appropriate $a, b$. Then use partial fractions.
• With $a=-\phi$ and $b=\phi-1=\dfrac{1}{\phi}$ where $\phi$ is the golden ratio. Definitely not appropriate for a timed test. One can eliminate the $x^3$ in the numerator by the substitution $x=u^{-1}$. Sep 18 '17 at 18:53