How to solve the integral of Ax^2 * exp(-x^2/2a^2)

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In summary, the conversation discusses the solution of the equation for the integral of a function with the form Ax^2*exp(-x^2/2a^2). It is mentioned that the antiderivative of this function cannot be expressed in terms of elementary functions, but can be expressed in terms of the error function. Another approach is suggested, using calculus and statistics formulas to find the integral over the whole real line. Finally, a suggestion is made to simplify the integration by setting a substitution.
  • #1
danai_pa
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Please healp me

What is the solution of equation?

intregal of Ax^2*exp(-x^2/2a^2)
 
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  • #2
danai_pa said:
Please healp me

What is the solution of equation?

intregal of Ax^2*exp(-x^2/2a^2)
Do you want a definite or indefinite integral? The antiderivative of this function cannot be written in terms of elementry function. If you know the function erf(x) you can express the integral in terms of it (hint: integrate by parts). erf is usually defined in terms of the integral of exp(-x^2). You can also find the integral of the function over the whole real line by integrating by parts and using the fact that the whole real line integral of exp(-k x^2) is
sqrt(pi/k) a fact that can be shown a number of ways. How much calculus do you know?
 
  • #3
If you are looking to integrate over the whole real line, and are familiar with statistics, another approach is to notice that, apart from a constant, this is similar to finding the expectation of x^2 where x is a normally distributed random variable with mean 0 and variance a^2. Using the formula

var[x] = E[x^2] - (E[x])^2

will then provide the answer.
 
  • #4
why don't you just set u = (-x^2 / 2 * x ^2)

then du / dx = - x / a ^ 2

then it is much easier
 

1. What is the general formula for solving integrals of the form Ax^2 * exp(-x^2/2a^2)?

The general formula for solving integrals of this form is:

∫ Ax^2 * exp(-x^2/2a^2) dx = √(2πa^4) * A/2

2. How do I determine the limits of integration for this integral?

The limits of integration for this integral are determined by the range of values for x that are relevant to the problem at hand. These limits can be determined by examining the context of the problem and identifying the relevant variables and their ranges.

3. Can this integral be solved using basic integration techniques?

Yes, this integral can be solved using basic integration techniques such as substitution, integration by parts, or partial fractions. However, depending on the value of a, it may also require the use of more advanced techniques such as completing the square or trigonometric substitutions.

4. What is the significance of the parameter "a" in the integral?

The parameter "a" represents the standard deviation of the normal distribution that is being integrated. It affects the shape and width of the curve and can impact the difficulty of solving the integral. When a is small, the curve is narrow and tall, making it easier to solve the integral. When a is large, the curve is wider and flatter, making the integral more challenging.

5. Can this integral be solved analytically or does it require numerical methods?

This integral can be solved analytically using the formula mentioned in the first question, as long as the limits of integration and the parameter "a" are known. However, in some cases where the limits are complex or the value of a is very large, it may be more practical to use numerical methods such as Simpson's rule or the trapezoidal rule to approximate the value of the integral.

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