Where is the following function continuous

In summary, to show that the function f is continuous for y ≠ 0 and discontinuous for y = 0, we can use the dominated convergence theorem to show that for any sequence y_n approaching y, the limit of f(y_n) is equal to the integral of a function g which is bounded by |y_n\arctan x|. This shows that f is continuous for y ≠ 0. For y = 0, we can use the same approach by choosing a sequence y_n = 0 and showing that the limit of f(y_n) is not equal to the integral of g, thus showing that f is discontinuous at y = 0.
  • #1
firenze
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Homework Statement


[tex]f: [0,+\infty) \to \mathbb{R}: y \mapsto \int_0^{+\infty} y \arctan x \exp(-xy)\,dx.
[/tex]
Show that this function is continuous in [tex]y[/tex] if [tex]y \neq 0[/tex]
and discontinuous if [tex]y = 0[/tex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I just can't get started, any hint?
 
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  • #2
Start by trying to simplify an expression for f(y+d)-f(y). Ultimately you want to show that for any epsilon>0, you can pick a delta so that |f(y+d)-f(y)|<epsilon for all d<delta.
 
  • #3
Here is my try:
Choose a sequence [tex]y_n \in [0,+\infty )[/tex] such that [tex]y_n \to y (\neq 0)[/tex].
Define the function [tex]g_n(x)=y_n \arctan x e^{-xy_n}[/tex], then its limit is [tex]g(x)=y\arctan x e^{-xy}[/tex].
Note that [tex]|g_n(x)| \leq |y_n\arctan x|[/tex], it follows [tex]g_n[/tex] is integrable. Hence by dominated convergence thm we have
[tex]\lim f(y_n)=\lim \int g_n \to \int g = f(y)[/tex].

Am I right? Still no idea for the case [tex]y=0[/tex]
 
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  • #4
To use the dominated convergence theorem you need to find a function that bounds g_n for all n. In other words, this function can't have an n in it. Other than that you seem to be on the right track. The same idea should work for y=0.
 

FAQ: Where is the following function continuous

What is continuity?

Continuity refers to the property of a function or a graph where there are no abrupt changes or breaks. In simpler terms, a continuous function can be drawn without lifting your pencil or pen from the paper.

How can you determine if a function is continuous?

A function is continuous if it satisfies the three conditions of continuity: existence, finiteness, and continuity at a point. This means that the function must exist at a given point, have a finite value, and have a limit that equals the function's value at that point.

What are the different types of discontinuity?

There are three types of discontinuity: removable, jump, and infinite. A removable discontinuity occurs when there is a hole or gap in the graph that can be filled by redefining the function at that point. A jump discontinuity happens when there is a sudden change in the function's value at a point. An infinite discontinuity occurs when the function approaches either positive or negative infinity at a certain point.

How can you use the limit concept to determine continuity?

The limit concept states that if the limit of a function exists at a certain point, then the function is continuous at that point. This means that the function must have a value at that point, and the value of the limit must be equal to the function's value at that point.

Can a function be continuous at some points and discontinuous at others?

Yes, a function can be continuous at some points and discontinuous at others. This is known as a piecewise continuous function. It means that the function is defined by different rules in different intervals, and it may or may not be continuous at the endpoints of those intervals.

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