Integrating $\int_0^{\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}\frac{x^2}{2}$: U-Substitution or Parts?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the integral $\int_0^{\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}\frac{x^2}{2}dx$ and whether to approach it using u-substitution or integration by parts. Participants explore the feasibility of solving the integral in terms of elementary functions and discuss alternative representations, including the Error function.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the integral cannot be solved in terms of elementary functions and can instead be expressed using the Error function.
  • Another participant clarifies that their integral is derived from a double integral and questions the correctness of their reduction.
  • Some participants agree that it is impossible to integrate the function with elementary functions, regardless of the method used.
  • One participant proposes using an infinite series expansion of $e^{-x^2}$, substituting $t = -x^2$, and integrating term by term, suggesting this method as an alternative approach.
  • There is a humorous exchange about the perceived value of answers in terms of special functions versus elementary functions, with some participants expressing frustration over integrals that yield complex results.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the integral cannot be expressed in terms of elementary functions. However, there are multiple competing views on the best approach to handle the integral, including the use of the Error function and series expansion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of using special functions versus elementary functions, and there is a lack of consensus on the most effective method for integration.

RadiationX
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\int_0^\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}\frac{x^2}{2}

should i use a u-substitution or integration by parts?
 
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You can not solve this in terms of elementary functions. It is possible to express the answer in terms of the Error function, that is:

\text{Erf}(x) = \frac{2}{\sqrt{\pi}} \int_0^x e^{-t^2} dt

You might want to give a shot at it yourself knowing that?
 
Last edited:
I don't think that I was being explicit enough in my first post: This is the double integral\int_0^3\int_{\sqrt{2y}}^{\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}dxdy that reduces to my original post integral

\int_0^\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}\frac{x^2}{2}dx

If I reduced correctly then how can i possibly integrate the integral with elementary functions?
 
Did I at least change the order of integration correctly?
 
Yes, you have changed it correctly.

It is not possible to integrate with elementary functions no matter how you look at it.
 
\int \left( e^{-x^2} \frac{x^2}{2} \right) dx = \frac{1}{4} \left( \int_0^x e^{t^2} dt - e^{-x^2} x \right) + C
 
Last edited:
RadiationX said:
\int_0^\sqrt{6}}e^{-x^2}\frac{x^2}{2}

should i use a u-substitution or integration by parts?


These a-hole intergral disgust me greatly when i worked on calaulus..

It is better if you just express e^t as a infinite serie. Substitude t=-x^2
in to the series. After that, multiple the entire series by x/2. intergrat it term by term, and plug numbers. This function can only be tame;not solve.
 
kant said:
These a-hole intergral disgust me greatly when i worked on calaulus..

It is better if you just express e^t as a infinite serie. Substitude t=-x^2
in to the series. After that, multiple the entire series by x/2. intergrat it term by term, and plug numbers. This function can only be tame;not solve.
An answer in terms of erf is no worse than one in terms of sin or exp. There are table and computer programs to find values. Infinite series are helpful for some purposes, but unless one is going to compute an approximation by hand, an expression in terms of erf looks nicer and is more informative. Were you also discusted by integrals like
\int_1^2\frac{dx}{x}
What good is an answer like log(2) or sin(exp(sqrt(2))) anyway.
End special treatment for elementary function.
Equality for special functions.
Equal rights for all functions.
 
lurflurf said:
End special treatment for elementary function.
Equality for special functions.
Equal rights for all functions.
Mathematical constipation :biggrin:
I mean constitution o:)

-- AI
 
  • #10
lurflurf said:
What good is an answer like log(2) or sin(exp(sqrt(2))) anyway.
End special treatment for elementary function.
Equality for special functions.
Equal rights for all functions.
Well in that case my new function is called easyanswer(t), easyanswer(t) is defined such that where t is some real number of my choice it is the solution to the given numerical integral in front of me. Much easier exams now :biggrin:
 

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