Definite integral challenge ∫ln(2−2cosx)dx=0

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SUMMARY

The definite integral of the function ln(2 - 2cos(x)) from 0 to π equals zero, as established in the discussion. Participants confirmed the validity of this result through various proofs and mathematical reasoning. The integral showcases properties of logarithmic functions and trigonometric identities, leading to the conclusion that the area under the curve is balanced around the x-axis within the specified limits.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of definite integrals and their properties
  • Familiarity with logarithmic functions
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities, particularly involving cosine
  • Basic skills in mathematical proof techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced techniques in evaluating definite integrals
  • Study the properties of logarithmic and trigonometric functions
  • Learn about symmetry in integrals and its implications
  • Investigate the application of integrals in real-world scenarios
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Mathematicians, students studying calculus, and anyone interested in integral calculus and mathematical proofs will benefit from this discussion.

lfdahl
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Prove, that the definite integral

$$\int_{0}^{\pi}\ln (2-2\cos x)dx = 0.$$
 
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Call the integral $I$. Let $x \mapsto \pi-x$ then we get $\displaystyle \int_0^{\pi}\ln(2+2\cos{x})\,{dx}$.

Then $\displaystyle 2I = \int_0^{\pi}\log(4\sin^2{x})\,{dx} \implies I = \int_0^{\pi}\log(\sin{x}) +\log(2)\,{dx}$

But $\displaystyle\log (\sin x)=-\sum\limits_{j=1}^{\infty }{\frac{\cos (2jx)}{j}}-\log( 2)$. Using this we end up with

$\displaystyle I = -\int_0^{\pi} \sum_{j=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{j} \cos{2jx} \,{dx}= -\sum_{j=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{j} \int_0^{\pi} \cos(2jx) \,{dx} = 0$ as required.
 
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June29 said:
Call the integral $I$. Let $x \mapsto \pi-x$ then we get $\displaystyle \int_0^{\pi}\ln(2+2\cos{x})\,{dx}$.

Then $\displaystyle 2I = \int_0^{\pi}\log(4\sin^2{x})\,{dx} \implies I = \int_0^{\pi}\log(\sin{x}) +\log(2)\,{dx}$

But $\displaystyle\log (\sin x)=-\sum\limits_{j=1}^{\infty }{\frac{\cos (2jx)}{j}}-\log( 2)$. Using this we end up with

$\displaystyle I = -\int_0^{\pi} \sum_{j=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{j} \cos{2jx} \,{dx}= -\sum_{j=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{j} \int_0^{\pi} \cos(2jx) \,{dx} = 0$ as required.

Welcome, June29! - to the challenge forum. What a nice entry you make with this fine solution of yours!
Thankyou for your participation.
 

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