Differentiation under the integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around differentiating an integral involving the logarithm function, specifically f(α) = ∫ log(1 + α cos(x)) dx, with the integral evaluated from 0 to π. Participants are exploring the implications of this differentiation and the expected presence of a factor of π in the final result.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the differentiation of the integral and the subsequent integration to find f(α). Questions arise regarding the bounds of the integral and the validity of certain mathematical expressions related to the integrand.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the differentiation process and suggesting substitutions that may aid in the solution. There is no explicit consensus on the presence of the factor of π, and multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a potential confusion regarding the bounds of the integral, which are clarified to be from 0 to π. Additionally, participants are questioning the relationship between the logarithmic function and its derivative with respect to α.

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Homework Statement


[tex]f(\alpha) = \int \log(1+ \alpha \cos(x))dx[/tex]

I am supposed to differentiate w.r.t alpha and then integrate to find f(alpha).

My book says that there should be a factor of pi in the answer but I do not get one. Does anyone else?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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no bounds to that integral?
 
Sorry. It goes from 0 to pi.
 
Okay, so we differentiate:
[tex]f'(\alpha)=\int_{0}^{\pi}\frac{\cos(x)}{1+\alpha\cos(x)}dx=\frac{1}{\alpha}\int_{0}^{\pi}(1-\frac{1}{1+\alpha\cos(x)})dx,f(0)=0[/tex]
See if this brings you any further.

The substitution [tex]u=\tan(\frac{x}{2})[/tex] might well be helpful.
 
is log(1+acos(x)) = cos(x)/(1+acos(x)) ?
 
No, he was doing what the thread title says. It's the derivative of your integrand with respect to alpha.
 

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