Telling whether an improper integral converges

In summary, the conversation discusses a result involving a logarithmic function and a polynomial in the denominator. It is noted that when the constant b is greater than or equal to 2, there are two singularities in the integral. The question is raised whether the integral exists in this case, and it is suggested that it may be considered in the sense of p.v. (principal value). However, in the "normal sense," the integral does not exist. It is also mentioned that a numerical experiment could be conducted to test this result.
  • #1
Mr Davis 97
1,462
44
Say we have the following result: ##\displaystyle \int_0^{\infty} \frac{\log (x)}{1 - bx + x^2} = 0##. We see that the denominator is 0 for some positive real number when ##b \ge 2##. Thus, we obtain a two singularities under that condition. Here's my question. Can we go ahead and say that the integral does not exist in the case that ##b \ge 2##? Could it ever be possible that for a specific ##b \ge 2##, when we take the limits around the singularities we get an integral that still converges to 0?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
you can consider the integral in sense of p.v. when b>2
 
  • #3
zwierz said:
you can consider the integral in sense of p.v. when b>2
I know that I could do that, but what I am asking is whether if b > 2 the integral could still converge to 0 in the normal sense, and if not why not.
 
  • #4
in the "normal sense" (not in p.v. sense) this integral does not exist. In p.v. sense it is a priori strange why such a function of b must be identical zero for all b. Extract the singularity and try a numerical experiment first
 

FAQ: Telling whether an improper integral converges

What is an improper integral?

An improper integral is an integral where one or both of the bounds of integration are infinite or where the integrand is undefined at one or more points within the bounds of integration.

How do you determine if an improper integral converges?

To determine if an improper integral converges, you can use the limit comparison test, the direct comparison test, or the p-series test. These tests involve taking the limit of the integral as the bounds of integration approach infinity or zero. If the limit is a finite number, then the integral converges. If the limit is infinite or does not exist, then the integral diverges.

What is the difference between a convergent and a divergent integral?

A convergent integral is one where the limit of the integral exists and is a finite number. This means that the area under the curve is finite and the integral can be evaluated. A divergent integral is one where the limit of the integral either does not exist or is infinite. This means that the area under the curve is infinite and the integral cannot be evaluated.

Can an improper integral converge even if the integrand is undefined at some points within the bounds of integration?

Yes, an improper integral can still converge even if the integrand is undefined at some points within the bounds of integration. This is because the behavior of the integrand at these points may not affect the overall behavior of the integral as the bounds approach infinity or zero. However, if the integrand is undefined at all points within the bounds of integration, then the integral will diverge.

What are some common types of improper integrals?

Common types of improper integrals include integrals with infinite bounds, integrals with a vertical asymptote within the bounds of integration, and integrals with a discontinuity within the bounds of integration. Examples of each type include ∫1 1/x dx, ∫01 1/(x-1) dx, and ∫01 1/√x dx, respectively.

Similar threads

Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Back
Top