Definite integral using complex analysis

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on evaluating the integral \(\int^{\infty}_{-\infty} \frac{\cos(ax)}{x^2 + b^2} dx\) using complex analysis techniques, specifically through contour integration in the upper half-plane. The result is established as \(\frac{\pi}{b}e^{-ab}\) for \(a > 0\) and \(b > 0\). Key methods include applying Cauchy's residue theorem and recognizing singularities at \(\pm ib\). Participants emphasize the importance of selecting the correct contour to simplify the evaluation process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Complex analysis fundamentals, including contour integration
  • Understanding of Cauchy's residue theorem
  • Familiarity with analytic functions and singularities
  • Knowledge of Euler's formula and its application in integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Cauchy's residue theorem in-depth
  • Learn about different contour integration techniques
  • Explore the application of Euler's formula in complex integrals
  • Investigate the properties of cosine integrals in complex analysis
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying complex analysis, as well as physicists and engineers applying these concepts in signal processing and systems analysis.

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Homework Statement


Considering the appropriate complex integral along a semi-circular contour on the upper half plan of z, show that
[itex]\int^{\infty}_{\infty} \frac{cos(ax)}{x^2 + b^2} dx = \frac{\pi}{b}e^{-ab} (a>0, b>0)[/itex]​


Homework Equations


[itex]\int_{C} = 0[/itex] For C is a semi-circle of infinite radius in the upper half of the complex plane.
[itex]\oint f(z)dz = 0[/itex] for analytic functions
[itex]\oint f(z)dz = 2\pi i \sum Res[f(z_{0})][/itex] Where z0 is a singularity and you sum over all the residues within the contour.
[itex]z^2 + b^2 = (z+ib)(z-ib)[/itex]



The Attempt at a Solution


I've been trying to solve this by using [itex]\int \frac{e^{iaz}}{z^2 + b^2}dz[/itex]. Which must be solved using Cauchy's Formula (the residue thing above), since f(z) is not analytic over all space. There is a singularity of order one at [itex]\pm ib[/itex].
Is there a better contour integral I could use? Right now the algebra is getting messy.
 
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Show us your work. You must be doing something wrong because that contour integral is pretty straightforward to evaluate.
 
I tried using the contour integral [itex]\int^{\infty}_{\infty} \frac{e^{-iaz}}{z^2+b^2}dz[/itex] and found that it was equal to [itex]\frac{\pi}{b}e^{-ab}[/itex]. Now I think I have to consider that a sum of different integrals. We have the top hemisphere, the x-axis and the circular contour about z0 and the lines leading to +ib. I'm finding that must of those are zero and I think I can pull out the cosine function from the integral along the x-axis...

I think before I was just forgetting how to factor...
 

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