Integrability implies continuity at a point

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that if a function f is integrable on the interval [a,b], then there exists an infinite number of points within that interval where f is continuous. The participants reference Spivak's Calculus, specifically utilizing the criteria for integrability involving upper and lower sums. The second criterion, which states that for every epsilon greater than zero, there exists a partition P such that the difference between the upper and lower sums over P is less than epsilon, is highlighted as particularly useful for the proof. The conversation also touches on the importance of continuity at one point leading to continuity at infinitely many points within the interval.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of integrability criteria in real analysis
  • Familiarity with Spivak's Calculus
  • Knowledge of upper and lower sums
  • Concept of continuity in mathematical functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the proof of the equivalence of the two integrability criteria in Spivak's Calculus
  • Explore the implications of continuity in real analysis
  • Learn about partitions and their role in defining integrability
  • Investigate the concepts presented in Hubbard's Vector Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Differentiable Forms
USEFUL FOR

Students of real analysis, particularly those studying integrability and continuity, as well as educators and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the foundational concepts in calculus.

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Homework Statement



If f is integrable on [a,b], prove that there exists an infinite number of points in [a,b] such that f is continuous at those points.

Homework Equations



I'm using Spivak's Calculus. There are two criteria for integrability that could be used in this proof (obviously, they have been shown to be equivalent). The first is the usual inf(upper sums) = sup(lower sums) one, and the second is that for every epsilon greater than zero, there is a partition P such that the upper sum over P minus the lower sum over P is less than epsilon.


The Attempt at a Solution



I haven't made much progress - obviously the second definition seems a bit easier to use, and I have figured out that if you prove that if it is continuous at one point in the interval, it is continuous at an infinite number of points on the interval. So the problem is reduced somewhat.

Any hints?

Thank you!
 
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This is part (e) of the exercise in Spivak. Did you already show (a)-(d)?? Where are you stuck exactly??
 
Yeah, I didn't want to do those parts/look at them because I knew that he was spelling out the solution - so I attempted to all do it in my head, away from the book paper but wasn't able to get anywhere.

I eventually just looked at the book's solution (parts a through d).

As a side note, what do you think of Hubbard's Vector Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Differentiable Forms? You recommended it a while ago. What are its strengths, what are its weaknesses? How does it compare to other good books on similar subjects?

Thank you so much!
 

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