Dirac Delta Function: Definition & Mathematics

Click For Summary
The Dirac delta function is a mathematical construct that is rigorously defined within the framework of distributions, which falls under functional analysis. It is not merely a "fuzzy" concept but serves as a valuable tool in various mathematical and physical applications. Understanding its rigorous definition requires a solid grasp of functional analysis principles. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between intuitive uses of the Dirac delta function and its formal mathematical treatment. Overall, the Dirac delta function is a well-defined entity in advanced mathematics, specifically in the context of distributions.
Vahsek
Messages
86
Reaction score
7
It's been quite some time now since I decided to stop self-studying physics and to pay more attention to the math behind. I'm working towards gaining an understanding of 100% rigorous mathematics for now.

One thing that has always bothered me is the Dirac delta function. What I want to know is the following: is the dirac delta function rigorously defined in any area of mathematics or is it just some kind of "fuzzy" mathematics to help with computations? Secondly, if it is rigorously defined somewhere, in which topic of mathematics is it? (real analysis, complex analysis, functional analysis... ?)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
See distributions for the rigorous treatment. It requires knowledge of functional analysis.
 
  • Like
Likes 1 person
We all know the definition of n-dimensional topological manifold uses open sets and homeomorphisms onto the image as open set in ##\mathbb R^n##. It should be possible to reformulate the definition of n-dimensional topological manifold using closed sets on the manifold's topology and on ##\mathbb R^n## ? I'm positive for this. Perhaps the definition of smooth manifold would be problematic, though.

Similar threads

  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
28K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K