Approximate formulas for integrals of Gamma functions?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for approximate formulas for integrals involving Gamma functions, specifically focusing on the integral of the form f(n,p) = integral(n!/(x! (n - x)!) dx from -1/2 to p, where n > 1 and p < n + 1/2. Participants are interested in empirical observations and theoretical approaches to derive these approximations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes the function f(n,p) and notes that empirically, f(n,n+1/2) appears to be close to 2^n.
  • Another participant suggests that to obtain a more accurate approximation, one could utilize series developments of the Gamma function, recommending splitting the range of integration into two parts: one for low values of x and another for large values of x.
  • There is a mention of the complexity involved in the calculus and the need to limit the series development to a small number of terms for accuracy.
  • A participant inquires about the source of a derivation provided in an attachment, indicating a desire for clarification on the origin of the proof.
  • A later reply humorously states that the derivation is from "nowhere," suggesting a light-hearted approach to the inquiry.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the existence of established approximate formulas, and multiple approaches and ideas are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the challenges in deriving accurate approximations and the dependence on the range of integration and the terms used in series developments. Specific assumptions regarding the behavior of the Gamma function in different ranges are not fully explored.

YaroslavVB
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Suppose f(n,p)=integral(n!/(x! (n - x)!dx, for x from -1/2 to p)
where n>1, p<n+1/2

Are approximate formulas known for this kind of integral?
Empirically, f(n,n+1/2) seems to be close to 2^n

More generally, I'm looking for approximate formulas for integrals of n!/(x1!x2!...xn!) over nice sets, textbook suggestions are welcome

ListPlot[Table[2^n - NIntegrate[n!/(x! (n - x)!), {x, -1/2, n + 1/2}], {n, Range[30]}], PlotRange -> {{0, 30}, {0, .12}}]
 
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In attachment, the proof of the 2^n rough approximate.
In order to obtain a very accurate approximate, one can use series developments of the Gamma function. The range of integration have to be split in two :
A first range for low values of x and the series development of Gamma in a range close to 0.
A second range for large values of x and the asymptotic series development of Gamma.
Indeed, the calculus will be rather arduous and the series development will have to be limited to a very low number of terms.
 

Attachments

  • Rough Approximate.JPG
    Rough Approximate.JPG
    48 KB · Views: 1,177
Thanks! Derivation in the attachment, where is it from?
 
where is it from?
From nowhere. :wink:
 

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