Regularization of integral by substraction

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of subtracting a polynomial K from a divergent integral in n-variables to make it finite. It is also mentioned that this technique, known as BPHZ renormalization, relies on Weinberg's theorem and is used in perturbative calculations of one-particle irreducible Green's functions. A detailed description of this technique can be found in a qft writeup.
  • #1
zetafunction
391
0
given the divergent integral in n-variables

[tex] \int_{V} f(q1,q2,...,qn)dq1,dq2,...dqn [/tex]

my question is if in general one can substract a Polynomial K in the variables [tex] q1,q2,...,qn [/tex] so the integral

[tex] \int_{V} (f(q1,q2,...,qn)-K(q1,q2,...,qn))dq1,dq2,...dqn [/tex]

is FINITE , then it would appear divergent integrals related to [tex] \int (q1)^{m}dq1 [/tex]

for positive 'm'
 
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  • #2
No, consider the integrand exp(q_1+q_2).
 
  • #3
I guess what the OP is after is the BPHZ renormalization, where divergent integrals appearing in perturbative calculations of one-particle irreducible Green's functions are not regularized in any way but made finite directly by subtracting the integral with certain values of the external momenta (determining the renormalization point). This of course rests on Weinberg's theorem on the asymptotic behavior of such integrals. You find a quite detailed description of this technique in my qft writeup:

http://theorie.physik.uni-giessen.de/~hees/publ/lect.pdf
 
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FAQ: Regularization of integral by substraction

What is the purpose of regularization in integrals by subtraction?

The purpose of regularization in integrals by subtraction is to handle divergent or undefined integrals that arise in certain mathematical calculations. It involves subtracting a related but simpler integral from the original integral to eliminate the divergence and obtain a more accurate result.

How does regularization work in integrals by subtraction?

Regularization works by subtracting a simpler integral, often referred to as a counterterm, from the original integral. This counterterm is specifically chosen to cancel out the divergent part of the original integral while preserving the finite part. This results in a well-defined and finite integral that can be evaluated numerically.

Can you provide an example of regularization in integrals by subtraction?

One example of regularization in integrals by subtraction is the Casimir effect, which arises in quantum field theory. The vacuum energy density between two parallel conducting plates is calculated by subtracting the vacuum energy density outside the plates from the total vacuum energy density. This subtraction eliminates the infinite vacuum energy density outside the plates and results in a finite and physically meaningful value.

What are the benefits of using regularization in integrals by subtraction?

The main benefit of using regularization in integrals by subtraction is that it allows for the calculation of otherwise divergent or undefined integrals. This is especially important in theoretical physics and mathematics, where such integrals arise frequently. Additionally, regularization can provide more accurate results by eliminating the divergence and capturing the finite part of the integral.

Are there any limitations or drawbacks to regularization in integrals by subtraction?

One limitation of regularization in integrals by subtraction is that it requires knowledge of the counterterm, which may not always be known or easy to determine. In some cases, there may be multiple possible choices for the counterterm, leading to different regularized results. Additionally, the regularization procedure may introduce some level of subjectivity in the final result, as it involves a choice of counterterm.

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