Is the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function continuous?

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In summary, a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is a measurable function with a finite integral over its domain. It is important to know if the integral of this function is continuous because it helps us understand its behavior and make predictions in various contexts. In real-world applications, a continuous integral for this function is significant in accurately measuring and analyzing continuously varying quantities. The continuity of the integral is related to the Riemann integral and can be proven using techniques such as the Monotone Convergence Theorem, Dominated Convergence Theorem, or Fatou's Lemma. Understanding the properties of the function and its domain can also aid in proving its continuity.
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Chris L T521
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Here's this week's problem (and the last Graduate POTW of 2012!).

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Problem: Let $f$ be a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function. Show that the function defined by\[F(x)=\int_{-\infty}^xf\,dm\]
is continuous by the monotone convergence theorem.

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This week's question was correctly answered by girdav. You can find his answer below:

As $f$ is integrable, we can write it as a limit in $L^1$ of simple functions (that is, linear combinations of characteristic functions, here of sets of finite measure by integrability) $f_n$. This forms a sequence which converges uniformly to $f$ on the real line, so it's enough to do it when $f$ is a simple function. By linearity, it's enough to do it when $f$ is the characteristic function of a measurable set $S$ of finite measure. We have for $s,t\in \Bbb R$ that $|F(s)-F(t)|\leqslant |s-t|\cdot m(S)$, which can be seen assuming for example that $s<t$.
 

FAQ: Is the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function continuous?

What is the definition of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function?

A nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is a function that is measurable and has a finite integral over its domain. This means that the function can be divided into measurable sets and the integral of each set is finite.

Why is it important to know if the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is continuous?

Knowing if the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is continuous is important because it allows us to understand the behavior of the function over its domain. It also allows us to make predictions about the behavior of the function in other areas and to apply the function in different contexts.

What is the significance of a continuous integral for a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function in real-world applications?

In real-world applications, a continuous integral for a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is significant because it allows us to accurately measure and analyze quantities that vary continuously over a given domain. This is particularly useful in fields such as physics, economics, and engineering.

How is the continuity of the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function related to the Riemann integral?

The Riemann integral is a special case of the Lebesgue integral, and in many cases, the two are equivalent. However, the Lebesgue integral is more general and allows us to integrate a wider range of functions. The continuity of the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function is related to the Riemann integral in that it ensures that the integral is well-defined and can be calculated using the Riemann integral.

What are some techniques for proving the continuity of the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function?

There are several techniques that can be used to prove the continuity of the integral of a nonnegative Lebesgue integrable function. These include using the Monotone Convergence Theorem, the Dominated Convergence Theorem, or the Fatou's Lemma. Additionally, understanding the properties of the function and its domain can also aid in proving the continuity of the integral.

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