Evaluating a rational function with contour integration

In summary, the conversation was about evaluating the integral $\displaystyle I = \int_{0}^{1} \frac{x^4(1-x)^4}{1+x^2} dx$ using a rectangular contour with a radius $R$ that approaches 1. It was mentioned that the pole $z=i$ is inside the contour, allowing the use of the residue theorem to calculate the integral. The conversation also discussed the use of a square contour and the resulting function after simplification, making the integration easier.
  • #1
Amad27
412
1
Hello, I am looking to evaluate:

$$I = \int_{0}^{1} \frac{x^4(1-x)^4}{1+x^2} dx$$

I will use a rectangular contour.

The image looked weird here so the upload of the image is here:

http://i.stack.imgur.com/W4BfA.jpg

$R$ is more like the radius of the small semi circle, we have to let $R \to 1$ in the end.

The pole $z = i$ is inside, so by the residue theorem,

$$\oint_{C} f(z) dz = -4\pi$$

I have never used a square contour before, so will someone help me out?

Thanks.
 

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  • #2
Olok said:
Hello, I am looking to evaluate:

$$I = \int_{0}^{1} \frac{x^4(1-x)^4}{1+x^2} dx$$

I will use a rectangular contour.

The image looked weird here so the upload of the image is here:

http://i.stack.imgur.com/W4BfA.jpg

$R$ is more like the radius of the small semi circle, we have to let $R \to 1$ in the end.

The pole $z = i$ is inside, so by the residue theorem,

$$\oint_{C} f(z) dz = -4\pi$$

I have never used a square contour before, so will someone help me out?

Thanks.

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} \frac{x^4 \, \left( 1 - x \right) ^4 }{ x^2 + 1 } &= \frac{ x^4 \left( 1 - 4x + 6x^2 - 4x^3 + x^4 \right) }{x^2 +1} \\ &= \frac{x^8 - 4x^7 + 6x^6 - 4x^5 + x^4}{x^2 + 1} \\ &= x^6 - 4x^5 + 5x^4 - 4x^2 + 4 - \frac{4}{x^2 + 1} \end{align*}$

this should be very easy to integrate now...
 

FAQ: Evaluating a rational function with contour integration

What is a rational function?

A rational function is a mathematical expression in the form of a ratio of two polynomials. It can be written as f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P(x) and Q(x) are polynomials and Q(x) is not equal to 0.

What is contour integration?

Contour integration is a method of evaluating integrals by using complex analysis. It involves integrating a complex-valued function along a curve or contour in the complex plane.

Why is contour integration useful for evaluating rational functions?

Contour integration is useful for evaluating rational functions because it allows us to transform the integral into a more manageable form, often leading to simpler calculations and solutions.

What are the steps for evaluating a rational function with contour integration?

The steps for evaluating a rational function with contour integration are as follows:1. Identify the function and its singularities.2. Choose a contour that encloses all the singularities.3. Evaluate the integral along the contour using the Cauchy's integral formula.4. Apply the residue theorem to calculate the integral.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using contour integration to evaluate rational functions?

Some common mistakes to avoid when using contour integration to evaluate rational functions include:- Choosing the wrong contour, which may not enclose all the singularities.- Forgetting to include the contribution of the singularities within the contour.- Making errors in calculating the residues.- Not simplifying the final solution if possible.

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