Question 37

Mathematics Definite Integrals Easy

The value of the integral \( \int_{0}^{\pi/4} \frac{dx}{\cos^4 x} \) is

(A) \( \frac{1}{3} \)
(B) \( \frac{2}{3} \)
(C) 1
(D) \( \frac{4}{3} \)
✓ Correct Answer: Option D Verified Solution

📘 Step-by-Step Solution & Detailed Explanation:

Rewrite the integral in terms of secant:\n\[ I = \int_{0}^{\pi/4} \sec^4 x dx \]\n\[ = \int_{0}^{\pi/4} \sec^2 x \cdot \sec^2 x dx \]\n\nUse the trigonometric identity \( \sec^2 x = 1 + \tan^2 x \):\n\[ I = \int_{0}^{\pi/4} (1 + \tan^2 x) \sec^2 x dx \]\n\nUse substitution. Let \( u = \tan x \).\nThen \( du = \sec^2 x dx \).\nChange the limits of integration:\nWhen \( x = 0 \), \( u = \tan(0) = 0 \).\nWhen \( x = \frac{\pi}{4} \), \( u = \tan(\frac{\pi}{4}) = 1 \).\n\nSubstitute these into the integral:\n\[ I = \int_{0}^{1} (1 + u^2) du \]\n\[ = \left[ u + \frac{u^3}{3} \right]_{0}^{1} \]\n\[ = \left( 1 + \frac{1}{3} \right) - (0) = \frac{4}{3} \]

Practice Similar Definite Integrals Questions

Reinforce your conceptual grasp with related questions from MAH MCA CET 2026:

Q38 Let \( f -1 \) denote the inverse of a function \( f \). Let \( f:[0,∞) R...
Solve →
Q1 The set \( (A B)∩ C \) is not equal to
Solve →
Q2 Define a relation \( \) on the set \( \ 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10\ \) by \( a b...
Solve →
Q3 Let \( n \) be the number of injective functions \( f: \ 1,2,3,4\ arrow \...
Solve →
Q4 If there are 5 sets represented via a Venn diagram, the number of regions...
Solve →
Full-Length Test Series

Prepare for MAH MCA CET Under Real Exam Conditions

Take timed full-length mock tests with authentic question distributions, negative marking (+12/-3 in Math), and instant All India Rank calculation.

Start Free Mock Test Series →