The discussion revolves around the integral ∫sin(sin(x)) dx, with participants questioning its classification as an elementary function and exploring its properties.
The conversation is ongoing, with participants sharing thoughts on the limitations of Mathematica in solving the integral and questioning the validity of its output. There is no consensus on the integral's classification or naming.
Participants reference the challenge of integrating functions that are not elementary and the implications of such classifications in mathematical discourse.
kahwawashay1 said:What is ∫sin(sin(x)) dx ?
I was told that it was not an elementary function. Then what function is it?
Dick said:I don't think it has a name yet. Do you want to name it?
Solve what?kahwawashay1 said:Haha how can it not be already named? Can't someone solve it?
kahwawashay1 said:Haha how can it not be already named? Can't someone solve it?
Dick said:Some integrals that can't be expressed as elementary functions are useful enough that they are given special names. E.g. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exponential_integral Not being able to 'solve' something doesn't it isn't useful or that there is nothing you can say about it.
kahwawashay1 said:ohhh
But I just downloaded Mathematica, and when I integrate sin(sin(x)), it gives me: (1/2)(sin2(x2))
But I can't see how taking the derivative of that gives sinsinx
Is Mathematica wrong then?