Integrating x*ln^2(ax)*exp(-bx^2+cx) | Help Needed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of the function x*ln^2(ax)*exp(-bx^2+cx) from zero to infinity, where a, b, and c are real and positive constants. Participants explore various approaches to tackle this integral, including techniques from calculus and properties of exponential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests assistance with the integral, specifying the limits from zero to infinity.
  • Another participant notes that the first term diverges as x approaches infinity and questions the validity of the integration limits.
  • A participant provides a partial integration approach for the term x*(ln(ax))^2, detailing the steps involved in the integration process.
  • Further, a participant discusses the integration of the exponential term exp(-bx^2 + cx), referencing the Gaussian integral and its application under certain conditions.
  • There is a correction from a participant who acknowledges a mistake in the formulation of the integrand, clarifying that it should be a multiplication of the two terms rather than a sum.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the behavior of the integral, particularly regarding convergence and the appropriate limits of integration. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing approaches and interpretations presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the convergence of the integral and the specific conditions under which the Gaussian integral applies. The discussion also reflects uncertainty about the correct formulation of the integrand.

ari_a
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Can anyone help me integrating the folowwing integrand from zero to infinity:
x*ln^2(ax)*exp(-bx^2+cx)
where a,b and c are real and pisitive constants.
Thanks
 
Last edited:
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First term diverges with [tex]x \rightarrow \infty[/tex]. Is the region really from 0 to infinity? If possible, please post in TeX.
But first term is not difficult. Using partial integral,

[tex]\int x (\ln ax)^2 dx = 1/2 x^2 (\ln ax)^2 - \int \frac {ax^2} {ax} \ln ax dx = \frac 1 2 x^2 (\ln ax)^2 - \int x \ln ax dx[/tex].

Using partial integral on the second term, it is

[tex]\frac 1 2 x^2 \ln ax - \frac 1 2 \int ax^2 \frac 1 {ax} dx = \frac 1 2 x^2 \ln ax - \frac 1 4 x^2[/tex]

So in total,

[tex]\int x (\ln ax)^2 dx = \frac 1 2 x^2((\ln ax))^2 - \ln ax) + \frac 1 4 x^2[/tex].

The second term can be integrated from [tex]-\infty \rightarrow \infty[/tex]
 
Last edited:
As for [tex]\exp(-bx^2+cx)[/tex], it can be integrated for some kinds of limited regions...(AFAIK) using Gaussian integral. i.e. Put

[tex]I = \int_{-\infty}^\infty \exp(-x^2) dx[/tex].

Then

[tex]I^2 = \int_{-\infty}^\infty \int_{-\infty}^\infty \exp(-(x^2 + y^2)) dx dy = 2 \pi \int_0^\infty r \exp(-r^2) dr = \pi[/tex]

So [tex]I = \sqrt \pi.[/tex]

But exp(-bx^2+cx) is another thing if the range is different... If the region is from [tex]-\infty \rightarrow \infty[/tex]

[tex]\int_{-\infty}^\infty \exp(-bx^2 + cx) dx = \int_{\infty}^\infty \exp(-b(x-\frac c {2b}) ^ 2 + \frac {c^2} {4b}) dx = \sqrt \pi \exp (c^2/4b) / \sqrt b[/tex]

I cannot go further..:frown:
 
Last edited:
I'm very sorry. I was mistaken. It should be a multiplication of the two terms, not sum. The integrand is now corrected in the original message.
Thanks
 

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