Can I Use Antiderivatives to Evaluate this Complex Integral?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the integral $$\int log^2(z) \, dz$$ using antiderivatives, specifically in the context of complex analysis. Participants are exploring the implications of the contour integral from ##π## to ##i##, avoiding the non-positive x-axis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the potential use of substitution, such as setting u=log(z), and question whether this is permissible given the requirement to use antiderivatives. Some suggest integration by parts as a possible method, while others express concerns about the effectiveness of certain choices for u and dv.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of different methods, particularly integration by parts, with some participants indicating that certain approaches may complicate the problem. Guidance has been offered regarding the notation for the contour integral and references to antiderivatives in complex analysis.

Contextual Notes

Participants note uncertainty about the appropriateness of certain substitutions and the implications of the requirement to use antiderivatives. There is also mention of the specific contour for the integral, which adds complexity to the evaluation.

Macykc2
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Homework Statement


I need to evaluate the following integral using the antiderivative:
$$\int log^2(z) \, dz$$
I don't know how to make a subscript for the integral sign, there should be a "c" on the bottom part. C is any contour from ##π## to ##i##, not crossing the non-positive x-axis.

Homework Equations


Given above

The Attempt at a Solution


The only thing I can think of is to do a substitution, such as u=logz, like in the real case but I haven't officially learned if that's possible so I don't know if I can do it, nor if I even have to. And it specifically says to use the antiderivative so I can't parameterize.
 
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Did you try integration by parts?
 
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Integration by parts...
u = (log(x))^2
dv = 1dx
 
sunnnystrong said:
Integration by parts...
u = (log(x))^2
dv = 1dx
If I understand that post correctly, that will make it worse. There is a better choice of the two parts.
 
mfb said:
If I understand that post correctly, that will make it worse. There is a better choice of the two parts.

well, i don't want to post the solution but if you use u = log^2(x) than it will reduce the power on the log by 1 and leave you with an easier problem to integrate :)
 
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sunnnystrong said:
well, i don't want to post the solution but if you use u = log^2(x) than it will reduce the power on the log by 1 and leave you with an easier problem to integrate :)
It works out fine with u=ln(z) and v'=ln(z), but you are right that your way is easier.
 
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Oh wait, for post 4 I was imagining logs in the denominator for some reason.
Ignore post 4, both approaches work and the one from sunnnystrong is easier.
 
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Macykc2 said:

Homework Statement


I need to evaluate the following integral using the antiderivative:
$$\int log^2(z) \, dz$$
I don't know how to make a subscript for the integral sign, there should be a "c" on the bottom part. C is any contour from ##π## to ##i##, not crossing the non-positive x-axis.

Homework Equations


Given above

The Attempt at a Solution


The only thing I can think of is to do a substitution, such as u=logz, like in the real case but I haven't officially learned if that's possible so I don't know if I can do it, nor if I even have to. And it specifically says to use the antiderivative so I can't parameterize.

You just put a '_C' next to your int instruction, to get ##\int_C \log^2 (z) \, dz##. Right-click on the formula and ask for a display of math as tex commands, to see how it is done.

As for using antiderivatives: see, eg.,
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antiderivative_(complex_analysis).
 

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