Fresnel Integrals: Unsolved Question from MHF

  • Context: MHB 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Fernando Revilla
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Fresnel Integrals
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around an unsolved question regarding the evaluation of the integral int_0^inf sin(t^2) dt, specifically seeking starting points or methods for proving that it equals sqrt(pi/8). The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of various techniques for solving the integral.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant references a source, 'functions of one complex variable by Conway', and asks for hints or comments on the integral.
  • Another participant shares a link to a PDF that outlines a potential approach, noting that it is in Spanish but suggests that the formulas can be followed.
  • A participant observes the use of contour integration and inquires about alternative methods for solving the integral.
  • Another participant mentions knowing a different method involving the Laplace transform but does not provide details, suggesting a link to another forum for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on a specific method for solving the integral, with multiple approaches being suggested and explored without resolution.

Contextual Notes

There are references to specific mathematical techniques (contour integration, Laplace transform) and a potential typo in a referenced document, indicating the discussion may depend on precise definitions and interpretations of the integral.

Fernando Revilla
Gold Member
MHB
Messages
631
Reaction score
0
I quote a unsolved question posted in MHF by user poorbutttryagin on February 5th, 2013.
I read 'functions of one complex variable by Conway'

186pg, 7.7. Prove that int_0^inf sin(t^2) dt = sqrt(pi/8)

What is the starting point?

Any comment or hint is welcomed !

Thanks !
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have a look at the pdf here:

http://www.fernandorevilla.es/iii/paginas-111-120/120-integrales-de-fresnel

P.S. 1 Although it is in Spanish, I think that one can follow the outline looking only at the formulas.

P.S. 2 There is a typo in the second line of the pdf.:

It should be $I_2=\displaystyle\int_0^{+\infty}\sin x^2\;dx$ instead of $I_2=\displaystyle\int_0^{+\infty}\cos x^2\;dx$
 
Last edited:
I see that you are using contour integration to solve the integral .

Do you have another method to solve it ?
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
Do you have another method to solve it ?

I know another metod (Laplace transform), but it is not in my site. Have a look (for example) here:

http://www.mymathforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=20045
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 105 ·
4
Replies
105
Views
8K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K