Integrand with Lambert W -function

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In summary, the author is modelling projectile motion and uses a placeholder for a function that evades regular analysis. The author finds an approximation for I(x, k) using numerical methods and then shows that the approximation can be simplified if one is patient enough to bash their head against a brick wall.
  • #1
Theia
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Hello!

I am modelling projectile motion under some non-simplified assumptions and I should obtain a some sort of 'solution' for the following horrible looking(?) integral

\(\displaystyle I(x, k) = \int_{-a}^x W(t) \sqrt[k]{t + a}\ \mathrm{d}t\),

where \(\displaystyle x \ge -a = -\mathrm{e}^{-1}\) and \(\displaystyle k \in \mathbb{Z}_+\). As for the \(\displaystyle x\), I can fix \(\displaystyle x = X\), that's not a problem for e.g. numerical integration.

But is there any other method to compute an approximation for \(\displaystyle I(x, k)\) than numerical methods? As far as I know, writing \(\displaystyle W(t)\) in terms of power serie is quite messy. But is there any other approachs?

Thank you! ^^
 
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  • #2
Theia said:
Hello!

I am modelling projectile motion under some non-simplified assumptions and I should obtain a some sort of 'solution' for the following horrible looking(?) integral

\(\displaystyle I(x, k) = \int_{-a}^x W(t) \sqrt[k]{t + a}\ \mathrm{d}t\),

where \(\displaystyle x \ge -a = -\mathrm{e}^{-1}\) and \(\displaystyle k \in \mathbb{Z}_+\). As for the \(\displaystyle x\), I can fix \(\displaystyle x = X\), that's not a problem for e.g. numerical integration.

But is there any other method to compute an approximation for \(\displaystyle I(x, k)\) than numerical methods? As far as I know, writing \(\displaystyle W(t)\) in terms of power serie is quite messy. But is there any other approachs?

Thank you! ^^

Hey Theia! ;)

Really! You expect something with the Lambert $W$ function to have a "nice" primitive?
It's a function that evades all regular analysis!
As I see it, it's just a placeholder for stuff that we can't deal with otherwise.
I think we can only compute approximations with numerical methods.
Sorry! :eek:
 
  • #3
I like Serena said:
Hey Theia! ;)

Really! You expect something with the Lambert $W$ function to have a "nice" primitive?
It's a function that evades all regular analysis!
As I see it, it's just a placeholder for stuff that we can't deal with otherwise.
I think we can only compute approximations with numerical methods.
Sorry! :eek:

Indeed, you may be right. Thank you!

To be more clear, perhaps not 'a nice primitive', but rather 'a suitable starting point that could be used somehow'. :D Mainly, I'm asking, because in some cases, if one is patient enough to bash his head against the brick wall, there are some non-trivial tricks that may simplify the situation (e.g. in simple fluid planet model, where one needs to integrate something like power function times inverse error function). Perhaps I'll think over this a little bit first too... With a strong brick wall, of course! ;)
 
  • #4
Okay, one day more brick walls.

Let's substitute \(\displaystyle t = q\mathrm{e}^q \quad \Rightarrow \quad \mathrm{d}t = \mathrm{e}^q(1+q)\mathrm{d}q\). So one obtains

\(\displaystyle I(x_q, k) = \int_{-1}^{x_q}q\sqrt[k]{q\mathrm{e}^q + \mathrm{e}^{-1}}\mathrm{e}^q(1+q)\mathrm{d}q.\)

Integrating by parts by choosing

\(\displaystyle \begin{align*} f &= q & g' &= \sqrt[k]{q\mathrm{e}^q + \mathrm{e}^{-1}}\mathrm{e}^q(1+q) \\
f' &= 1 & g &= \tfrac{k}{k+1} \sqrt[k]{\left( q\mathrm{e}^q + \mathrm{e}^{-1} \right)^{k+1}}
\end{align*}\)

one obtains

\(\displaystyle I(x_q, k) = \frac{kx_q}{k+1}\sqrt[k]{\left( x_q\mathrm{e}^{x_q} + \mathrm{e}^{-1} \right)^{k+1}} - \frac{k}{k+1} \int_{-1}^{x_q}\sqrt[k]{\left( q\mathrm{e}^{q} + \mathrm{e}^{-1} \right)^{k+1}}\mathrm{d}q.\)

No more special functions to disturb simple numerics! ^^
 

FAQ: Integrand with Lambert W -function

What is an Integrand with Lambert W-function?

An Integrand with Lambert W-function is an expression containing a variable and the Lambert W-function, also known as the product logarithm function. The Lambert W-function is the inverse of the function f(x)=xe^x, and is often used to solve equations involving exponential terms.

How is the Lambert W-function used in integrals?

The Lambert W-function is used in integrals as a tool to solve for the variable in the exponential term of the integrand. By using the inverse of the function, the integral can be rewritten in terms of the Lambert W-function, making it easier to solve.

What are the benefits of using the Lambert W-function in integrals?

The Lambert W-function can simplify complex integrals involving exponential terms. It also allows for the use of analytical methods to solve for the variable, rather than relying on numerical methods. This can lead to more accurate and precise solutions.

Are there any limitations to using the Lambert W-function in integrals?

While the Lambert W-function is a powerful tool in solving integrals, it does have some limitations. It may not be applicable to all integrals, and in some cases, it may not lead to a closed-form solution. Additionally, the integrals may become more complicated when using the Lambert W-function.

How is the Lambert W-function related to other mathematical functions?

The Lambert W-function is closely related to other mathematical functions such as the logarithm and exponential functions. In fact, the Lambert W-function can be written in terms of these functions. It is also related to the polylogarithm function and the generalized hypergeometric function.

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