Indefinite integral and proving convergence

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the convergence of the integral ∫(x*sin²(x))/(x³-1) from 2 to ∞. Participants are exploring various convergence tests and methods to analyze the integral's behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using the squeeze test and ratio test but express uncertainty about their effectiveness. There is a suggestion to apply the comparison test, with one participant proposing to compare the integral to 1/x³. Another participant introduces the idea of examining the absolute value of the function to determine convergence.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing hints and exploring different approaches to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the comparison test and the importance of checking the convergence of the absolute value of the function. There is an ongoing exploration of how to apply these concepts to the given integral.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the extent of direct solutions provided. There is an emphasis on understanding the implications of convergence tests and the conditions under which they apply.

SteliosVas
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Homework Statement



okay so the equation goes:

∫(x*sin2(x))/(x3-1) over the terminals:
b= ∞ and a = 2

Homework Equations



Various rules applying to the convergence or divergence of integrals such as the p-test, ratio test, squeeze test etc

The Attempt at a Solution



Okay so I have tried factorising the bottom, I have tried the squeeze test and the ratio test to no success..

would method should I be applying, because I am unsure how to split up this integral...

Thanks
 
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Here's a hint: first notice that \sin^2 x \leq 1 for all x. Then you can compare your integral with another one whose integrand is always greater. You can then prove the convergence of that integral.
 
Therefore using the comparison test should i compare this integral to 1/x3 over the same interval?
 
Lets apply a useful theorem. If ##\int_a^b |f(x)| \space dx## converges, then ##\int_a^b f(x) \space dx## converges. Note the converse of this theorem is not true. So you should always determine the convergence of ##\int_a^b |f(x)| \space dx## to determine if ##\int_a^b f(x) \space dx## converges.

Applying this theorem to your given problem:

$$\int_{2}^{\infty} \left| \frac{x \sin^2(x)}{x^3 - 1} \right| \space dx = \int_{2}^{\infty} \frac{|x| |\sin^2(x)|}{|x^3 - 1|} \space dx \leq \int_{2}^{\infty} \frac{|x|}{|x - 1| |x^2 + x + 1|} \space dx$$

For ##x \in [2, \infty)##, we can remove the absolute values in the expression because all of the terms would be positive anyway. So the new question is, does this integral converge:

$$\int_{2}^{\infty} \frac{x}{(x - 1) (x^2 + x + 1)} \space dx$$

Hint: Start with a partial fraction expansion, and then complete the square.
 
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Right now I understand. So the absolute of f(x) is always said to converge but the the opposite isn't always true ?

Right do we are performing a comparison test to x/(x^3-1)
 

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