How Do You Calculate the Integral of 1/Floor(x^2) from 1 to 2?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the integral of 1/floor(x^2) from 1 to 2, which is undefined due to the function's discontinuity at x = 1 and x = 2. The integral can be approximated using numerical methods, but the accuracy depends on the number of intervals used and the function's behavior. The "POTW #129" in the question refers to a mathematical problem involving this integral. While the integral may not have practical applications, it may be used in physics or engineering to model certain systems.
  • #1
anemone
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Evaluate $\displaystyle \int_{1}^{2} \dfrac{1}{\left\lfloor{x^2}\right\rfloor}\,dx$ where $\left\lfloor{u}\right\rfloor$ denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to $u$.

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  • #2
Congratulations to the following members for their correct solutions::)

1. Olok
2. laura123
3. MarkFL
4. Euge
5. kaliprasad

Solution from Euge:
Partition the interval $[1,2)$ into the subintervals $[1,\sqrt{2})$, $[\sqrt{2}, \sqrt{3})$, and $[\sqrt{3}, 2)$, in which $\lfloor x^2 \rfloor$ has values $1$, $2$, and $3$, respectively. Then

\(\displaystyle \int_1^2 \frac{dx}{\lfloor x^2 \rfloor} = \int_1^{\sqrt{2}} \frac{dx}{1} + \int_{\sqrt{2}}^{\sqrt{3}} \frac{dx}{2} + \int_{\sqrt{3}}^2 \frac{dx}{3} = \sqrt{2} - 1 + \frac{1}{2}(\sqrt{3} - \sqrt{2}) + \frac{1}{3}(2 - \sqrt{3})\)

\(\displaystyle = \frac{1}{6}(6\sqrt{2} - 6 + 3\sqrt{3} - 3\sqrt{2} + 4 - 2\sqrt{3}) = \frac{1}{6}(3\sqrt{2} + \sqrt{3} - 2).\)
 

FAQ: How Do You Calculate the Integral of 1/Floor(x^2) from 1 to 2?

1. What is the integral of 1/floor(x^2) from 1 to 2?

The integral of 1/floor(x^2) from 1 to 2 is undefined, as the function is discontinuous at x = 1 and x = 2.

2. Why is the integral undefined?

The integral is undefined because the function is discontinuous at the boundaries of the integration, 1 and 2. This means that the function has a jump or break in its graph at these points, making it impossible to find a single value for the integral.

3. Can the integral be approximated?

Yes, the integral can be approximated using numerical methods such as the trapezoidal rule or Simpson's rule. However, the accuracy of the approximation will depend on the number of intervals used and the behavior of the function within those intervals.

4. What is the significance of the "POTW #129" in the question?

"POTW #129" refers to the Problem of the Week #129, a mathematical problem or challenge that is often presented by math or science websites or publications. This particular problem involves evaluating the integral of 1/floor(x^2) from 1 to 2.

5. Are there any practical applications for this integral?

This integral may arise in theoretical or mathematical contexts, but it does not have any direct practical applications. However, similar integrals may be used in physics or engineering to model certain phenomena or systems.

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