Integrating a x^k ln(x) Function with Gamma Function

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The discussion revolves around integrating the function -∫^1_0 x^k ln(x) dx and expressing it in terms of the gamma function. Participants explore various substitutions, particularly x = e^(-u/k), to transform the integral's limits from (0 to 1) to (0 to infinity). There is confusion regarding the correct manipulation of limits and the integration process, with some suggesting that integration by parts might be a simpler approach. Ultimately, the goal is to clarify how to properly utilize the gamma function for this integral. The conversation highlights the challenges of applying advanced mathematical concepts to seemingly straightforward integrals.
clandarkfire
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Homework Statement


"Show that - \int^1_0 x^k\ln{x}\,dx = \frac{1}{(k+1)^2} ; k > -1.

Hint: rewrite as a gamma function.

Homework Equations


Well, I know that \Gamma \left( x \right) = \int\limits_0^\infty {t^{x - 1} e^{ - t} dt}.

The Attempt at a Solution


I've tried various substitutions, beginning with u=k*ln(x), but I'm not getting very far. To write it as a gamma function, I'd have to change the limits from (0 to 1) to (0 to infinity) and I can't find a way to do that.

Can someone point me in the right direction?
 
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I wonder why you should use the \Gamma function for this elementary integral. Perhaps I'm missing something, but if I'm not wrong, it should be pretty easily solvable by integration by parts.

If you are forced to use the \Gamma function, I'd indeed try the substitution
x=\exp (-u/k),
which leads to an integral you can evaluate immediately in terms of the \Gamma function.
 
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It does seem pretty straightforward with integration by parts, but since I'm told to use the gamma function, I'd at least like to know how to do that.
If I use the substitution x=e^{-u/k}, I get dx = -k*e^{-u/k}\,du The integral then becomes \int^1_0 e^{-u}*-\frac{u}{k}*-k*e^{-u/k}\,du = \int^1_0 e^{-(u + \frac{u}{k})}u\,du,
but the problem remains that it's between 0 and 1, not 0 and infinity. How do I get to a gamma function from there?
Thanks!
 
clandarkfire said:
It does seem pretty straightforward with integration by parts, but since I'm told to use the gamma function, I'd at least like to know how to do that.
If I use the substitution x=e^{-u/k}, I get dx = -k*e^{-u/k}\,du

Isn't that a ##\frac {-1} k## instead of ##-k## out in front?

The integral then becomes \int^1_0 e^{-u}*-\frac{u}{k}*-k*e^{-u/k}\,du = \int^1_0 e^{-(u + \frac{u}{k})}u\,du,
but the problem remains that it's between 0 and 1, not 0 and infinity. How do I get to a gamma function from there?
Thanks!

If ##x=e^{-u/k}## and ##x## goes from ##0## to ##1##, how do you get ##u## going from ##0## to ##1##?
 
Ah! That clears it up. Thanks!
 
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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