Understanding minimal substractio for several variables

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In summary, for one-dimensional integrals, minimal substraction is used to make a divergent integral convergent. However, for integrals in several variables, such as a triple integral, additional steps must be taken. These steps include performing minimal substraction in each variable separately, as well as in combinations of two or three variables. One possible method to solve this problem is to convert to spherical coordinates, reducing the problem to a one-dimensional integral.
  • #1
zetafunction
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for one dimensional integral [tex] \int_{0}^{\infty}dxf(x) [/tex] i know how to make minimal substraction however for an integral in several variables how is it done ??

for example for a triple integral

[tex] \int_{0}^{\infty} \int_{0}^{\infty} \int_{0}^{\infty}dx dy dz f(x,y,z) [/tex]

i must perfrom

a minimal substraction in 'x'

a minimal substraction in 'y'

a minimal substraction in 'z'

i know how to make this however what is the following step ?

a minimal substraction in 'x,y'

a minimal substraction in x,z

a minimal substraction in y,z

a minimal substraction in x,y,z

this is the part i do not know how to do
 
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  • #2
What is "minimal substraction"?
 
  • #3
mathman said:
What is "minimal substraction"?

minimal substraction is that given a divergent integral we must substract some terms to make it convergent.

for the case of 1 dimension is very VERY easy , the problem is when you have more than one dimension
 
  • #4
One way would be to convert to spherical coordinates. Then the problem would be one-dimensional, since ∞ appears only for the r integral.
 

FAQ: Understanding minimal substractio for several variables

What is minimal subtraction for several variables?

Minimal subtraction for several variables is a method used in quantum field theory to regulate divergent integrals. It involves subtracting a small amount from the divergent term in the integral to make it finite and then taking the limit as the subtraction goes to zero. This method is commonly used in renormalization to remove infinities from calculations.

Why is minimal subtraction used for several variables?

Minimal subtraction is used because it provides a systematic way to remove infinities from calculations in quantum field theory. It is also a convenient method because it does not require any additional parameters or counterterms, making the calculations simpler and more elegant.

How does minimal subtraction work?

Minimal subtraction works by subtracting a small amount, typically represented by the symbol ε, from the divergent term in the integral. This subtraction is then taken to the limit of ε going to zero, which effectively removes the infinity from the calculation. The result is a finite value that can be used in further calculations.

What are the advantages of using minimal subtraction?

One advantage of minimal subtraction is that it is a universal method, meaning it can be applied to any type of divergent integral. It also does not require any additional parameters or counterterms, making it a simple and elegant solution to removing infinities from calculations. Additionally, minimal subtraction preserves the symmetries of the theory, making it a reliable method for renormalization.

Are there any limitations to using minimal subtraction?

While minimal subtraction is a powerful method for regulating divergent integrals, it does have some limitations. In some cases, it may not be sufficient to fully remove all infinities from a calculation, and additional techniques such as dimensional regularization may be necessary. Additionally, minimal subtraction can be time-consuming and require careful calculations to ensure accurate results.

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