Mathematica : Will not perform integral

In summary, the conversation discusses integrating a complex function involving a square root and logarithms. The integrand is not easily integrable in a closed form, but can be simplified by making a substitution and using some assumptions. Ultimately, the integral can be solved with some hand-holding in Mathematica.
  • #1
Hepth
Gold Member
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I wish to integrate:
[tex]
\int dE \frac{\sqrt{E^2-m^2}}{E} \log \left(\frac{E-\sqrt{E^2-m^2}}{E+\sqrt{E^2-m^2}} \right) [/tex]

Integrate[ Sqrt[(El - m) (El + m)]/El Log[( (El -Sqrt[(El - ml) (El + ml)])/ (Sqrt[(El - ml) (El + ml)] + El))], El]

But it won't do it. Anyone have any ideas as to why? I've set the assumptions
$Assumptions = ml >= 0 && El >= ml

Is this just an impossible integral? It seems well behaved.
 
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  • #2
Hi Hepth,

Just because an integral is well behaved, doesn't mean that it's integrable in a nice closed form. Luckily, for your integral, all Mathematica needs is a little hand holding.

By writing x = ml^2/El^2, you can make the integrand look like

Sqrt[1 - x] Log[(1 - Sqrt[1 - x])/(1 + Sqrt[1 - x])]

This is easily checked in Mma using your assumptions.
The integral of the above integrand is

2/3 (1-x+Log[1-Sqrt[1-x]]-(1-x)^(3/2) Log[(1-Sqrt[1-x])/(1+Sqrt[1-x])]+Log[1+Sqrt[1-x]])

I've attached the notebook to this thread,

Simon
 

Attachments

  • Integral.nb
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Related to Mathematica : Will not perform integral

What is Mathematica and why is it used?

Mathematica is a computer program that is used for various mathematical and scientific calculations. It is commonly used by scientists, engineers, and mathematicians for tasks such as solving equations, performing integrals and derivatives, and creating visualizations of data.

Why is Mathematica giving an error message stating it will not perform an integral?

This error message typically occurs when Mathematica is unable to find an analytical solution to the integral. This can happen for complex integrals or when the function being integrated does not have a closed form solution.

Is there a way to work around this error and still perform the integral?

Yes, there are a few ways to work around this error. One option is to use numerical integration methods, which involve approximating the integral using discrete points. Another option is to use the symbolic integration capabilities of Mathematica to simplify the integrand before attempting the integral.

Can I use Mathematica for more than just math problems?

Yes, Mathematica has a wide range of capabilities beyond just mathematical calculations. It can be used for data analysis, visualization, and even programming and creating interactive applications.

Is Mathematica difficult to learn and use?

Like any software, there is a learning curve to using Mathematica, but it has a user-friendly interface and offers extensive documentation and tutorials to help users get started. With practice and familiarity, Mathematica can be a powerful and efficient tool for scientific computing.

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