King's Rule (integral(a,b) f(x)dx = integral(a,b) f(a+b-x)dx) is the most powerful property. Here's a systematic approach to recognizing and applying it.
Type 1: f/(f+g) Pattern (Most Common) If I = integral(0,a) f(x)/(f(x)+f(a-x)) dx, then King gives I = integral f(a-x)/(f(a-x)+f(x)) dx. Adding: 2I = integral 1 dx = a, so I = a/2.
Examples: sin^n/(sin^n+cos^n) on [0,pi/2], sqrt(tan)/(sqrt(tan)+sqrt(cot)), ln(sinx)/[ln(sinx)+ln(cosx)].
Type 2: x*f(sinx) Pattern on [0,pi] King replaces x by pi-x; sin(pi-x) = sin(x). So I = integral(0,pi)(pi-x)f(sinx) dx. Adding: 2I = piintegral f(sinx) dx.
Type 3: Self-Cancellation (I = -I) If King's Rule transforms f(x) into -f(x), then I + I = 0, so I = 0. Example: integral(0,pi/2)(sinx-cosx)/(1+sinx*cosx) dx — King turns it negative.
Type 4: Logarithmic Integrals integral(0,pi/4) ln(1+tanx) dx: King replaces tanx by (1-tanx)/(1+tanx). The sum simplifies to ln2.
Type 5: Combining with Other Properties After King's Rule, the simplified integral may need even/odd properties, periodicity, or direct evaluation. King reduces complexity; other properties finish the job.
Recognition Checklist:
- Limits [0,pi/2] with sin and cos? -> King swaps them
- Limits [0,pi] with x*f(sinx)? -> King removes the x
- f(x)/(f(x)+g(x)) where g = f(complement)? -> I = (b-a)/2
- Symmetric-looking integrand on symmetric limits? -> Try King's