Showing a function is integrable

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In summary, the given function f is positive and increasing on the interval [0, 1]. This implies that f^2 is also integrable on [0, 1] since f is monotone on that interval. Additionally, f^2(x) is increasing on [0, 1] since (f(x) - f(y)) < 0 and (f(x) + f(y)) > 0 when x < y. This also leads to f^2(x) \leq f(x) for x > 0, and f(x) \leq 1 as given, which shows that \int f^2(x) dx \leq \int f(x) dx.
  • #1
gbean
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Homework Statement


A function f is positive and increasing on [0, 1]. f(x) [tex]\leq[/tex] 1 [tex]\forall[/tex] x in [0, 1]. Show that f^2 is integrable, and that [tex]\int[/tex] f^2(x) dx [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]\int[/tex] f(x) dx.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Since f is increasing and positive, it is also monotone. If f(x) is monotone on [a, b], then f(x) is integrable on [a, b]. Also, when x<y, then f(x) < f(y).

f^2(x) - f^2(y) = (f(x) - f(y))(f(x) + (f(y))
Since f is increasing, (f(x) - f(y)) < 0 and (f(x) + f(y)) > 0.

Apparently, the last 2 lines are supposed to show that f^2(x) is increasing, but I don't understand the reasoning.

And if I show that f^2(x) is increasing, then it is also integrable, which solves one part of the question.

Then since f^2(x) [tex]\leq[/tex] f(x) for x>0, and f(x)[tex]\leq[/tex] 1 by the given => [tex]\int[/tex] f^2(x) dx [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]\int[/tex] f(x) dx, by inequality of functions indicating also the inequality of the integrals. This solves the second part of the question.
 
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  • #2
Does it have anything to with the fact that since f(x) - f(y) < 0, and f(x) + f(y) > 0, then the quantity becomes (f(x) < f(y))(f(x) < f(y))? Can I multiply through, so that f^2(x) < f^2(y)?
 
  • #3
Obviously you can, I mean that's the reason for factoring [itex](f(x))^2 - (f(y))^2[/itex] in the first place.
 

1. What does it mean for a function to be integrable?

Integrability refers to a function's ability to be integrated or finding the area under the curve of the function. An integrable function has a well-defined integral, meaning that it can be calculated using mathematical techniques.

2. How can I show that a function is integrable?

There are several ways to show that a function is integrable. One method is to use the Riemann integral, which involves partitioning the function into smaller subintervals and calculating the area of each subinterval. Another method is to use the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, which relates the integral of a function to its derivative.

3. What is the difference between a Riemann integrable and Lebesgue integrable function?

Riemann integrability is a more restrictive condition compared to Lebesgue integrability. A function is Riemann integrable if it has a finite number of discontinuities within its interval and its discontinuities are not too large. In contrast, a function is Lebesgue integrable if its integral can be approximated by a sequence of simple functions.

4. Can all functions be proven to be integrable?

No, not all functions are integrable. Some functions, such as the Dirichlet function, do not have a well-defined integral because they have an infinite number of discontinuities within their interval or their discontinuities are too large. However, many common functions, such as polynomials, trigonometric functions, and exponential functions, are integrable.

5. Why is it important to show that a function is integrable?

Showing that a function is integrable proves its mathematical validity and allows for the calculation of important quantities, such as area, volume, and work. Integrability is also a fundamental concept in calculus and is necessary for applications in physics, engineering, and other sciences.

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