Find the Limits of Integration for the Gamma Function

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The Gamma function is defined for x > 0 as Γ(x) = ∫₀^∞ t^(x-1)e^(-t) dt, and for positive integers n, it simplifies to Γ(n) = (n-1)!. The discussion involves using integration by parts to derive this result, with a focus on proper limits of integration. The integration process requires careful application of mathematical induction and integration techniques. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying limits after integration by parts. The conclusion reaffirms that the Gamma function for positive integers yields factorial values.
eestep
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Homework Statement


Gamma function is defined for all x>0 by rule
\Gamma(x)=\int0\inftytx-1e-tdt
Find a simple expression for \Gamma(n) for positive integers n. Answer is \Gamma(n)=(n-1)!


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


\int0\inftytn-1e-tdt=-tn-1e-t-\int(n-1)tn-2(-e-t)dt=-tn-1e-t+(n-1)\inttn-2e-tdt
u=tn-1 du=(n-1)tn-2dt
dv=e-tdt v=\inte-tdt=-e-t
 
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Use mathematical induction together with integration by parts.
 
I appreciate the advice!
 
eestep said:

Homework Statement


Gamma function is defined for all x>0 by rule
\Gamma(x)=\int_0^\infty\, t^{x-1}\,e^{-t}\,dt
Find a simple expression for \Gamma(n) for positive integers n. Answer is \Gamma(n)=(n-1)!

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



\Gamma(n)=\int_0^\infty\, t^{n-1}\,e^{-t}\,dt=-t^{n-1}\,e^{-t}-\int(n-1)t^{n-2}(-e^{-t})dt=-t^{n-1}e^{-t}\ +\ (n-1)\int t^{n-2}e^{-t}dt<br />

You are missing your limits of integration after doing integration by parts.

Click on the expression at the right to see the LaTeX code that produced it: \left[a^{-x}\right]_{\sqrt{2}}^{\infty}  .
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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