Integral symbol for closed loops over functions?

In summary, there can be confusion when dealing with integrals of multi-valued functions and distinguishing between a closed integration path and a closed loop over the function. The integration can be done over any of the multiple sheets or over an analytically-continuous path. There is no special integral symbol for the latter, but the specific path is usually described in text or notation. Not all path integrals are evaluated over circular or curved paths.
  • #1
jackmell
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I find it sometimes confusing dealing with integrals of multi-valued functions in distinguishing a closed integration path, and an integration path which forms a closed loop over the function. They can of course be quite different. For example:

$$\oint f(z)dz.$$

Now, is the integration to be done simply over any of the multiple sheets, for example random every [itex]\pi/12[/itex] over a circle or, is the integration to be done over an analytically-continuous path over the function?

Why don't we have a special integral symbol for the later?
 
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  • #2
Usually, the particular path of the integral will be described somewhere, either in text accompanying the integral or with some mathematical notation. Not all path integrals are necessarily evaluated over a circular, or even a curved, path.
 

1. What is the integral symbol for closed loops over functions?

The integral symbol for closed loops over functions is known as a contour integral or path integral. It is represented by the symbol ∫ and is used to calculate the total value of a function along a closed path or loop.

2. How is the integral symbol for closed loops over functions different from regular integrals?

The main difference between the integral symbol for closed loops over functions and regular integrals is that the closed loop integral considers the entire path of the function, while regular integrals only consider the endpoints. This means that the contour integral takes into account all points within the loop, rather than just the beginning and end points.

3. What is the significance of using the integral symbol for closed loops over functions?

The integral symbol for closed loops over functions is used to solve complex integrals that cannot be solved by traditional methods. It allows for the calculation of the total value of a function along a closed path, which can be useful in many applications such as physics, engineering, and mathematics.

4. Can the integral symbol for closed loops over functions be applied to any type of function?

Yes, the closed loop integral can be applied to any type of function, including multivariable functions and complex functions. As long as the function is defined over a closed path, the contour integral can be used to calculate its total value.

5. Are there any limitations to using the integral symbol for closed loops over functions?

The main limitation of using the integral symbol for closed loops over functions is that it can only be applied to functions that are defined over a closed path. Additionally, the path or loop must be continuous and differentiable for the contour integral to be valid. If these conditions are not met, alternative integration methods must be used.

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