Integration problem with e^(ix)

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In summary, the conversation discusses a method for integrating the expression \int\sqrt{1 - e^{(aix)}} by converting it to a single complex number in polar form and using substitutions to eventually solve for the answer. The suggestion is to treat the complex constant as a regular constant and back-substitute at the end. One potential starting point is to let u=1-e^{kx}.
  • #1
Mr Cheese
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So I basically want to integrate this expression

[itex]\int\sqrt{1 - e^{(aix)}}[/itex]

where a is some general term and i = [itex]\sqrt{-1}[/itex]

I thought maybe of converting it to a single complex number in polar form and then just halfing the angle to get rid of the root, but i really have no idea how to go about this problem.
 
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  • #2
Just treat the complex constant as just a regular constant, say call it k=ia and when you finally get the answer, back-subsitute what k is. Then write:

[tex]\int \sqrt{1-e^{kx}}[/tex]

You can do that huh? Takes several substitutions unless someone has a better way. So what happens if you start the first one by letting:

u=1-e^{kx}
 
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1. What is e^(ix) and why is it used in integration problems?

e^(ix) is a mathematical function called the complex exponential function. It is commonly used in integration problems because it allows for the integration of trigonometric functions, which often appear in physics and engineering equations.

2. How do you solve an integration problem with e^(ix)?

To solve an integration problem with e^(ix), you can use techniques such as substitution or integration by parts. You can also use the properties of e^(ix) to simplify the integration.

3. Can e^(ix) be integrated using traditional integration methods?

Yes, e^(ix) can be integrated using traditional integration methods such as the power rule, u-substitution, and integration by parts. However, it may require some algebraic manipulation and knowledge of the properties of e^(ix).

4. Are there any special cases when integrating e^(ix)?

Yes, when integrating e^(ix), there are a few special cases to consider. For example, when the exponent (ix) is a multiple of π (such as e^(iπx)), the integral simplifies to a constant. Additionally, when the integral involves e^(ix) as well as its complex conjugate e^(-ix), it can be simplified using the trigonometric identity cos(x) = (e^(ix) + e^(-ix))/2.

5. How is e^(ix) related to the unit circle?

e^(ix) is closely related to the unit circle in the complex plane. In fact, it can be viewed as a point moving around the unit circle at a constant speed of 1 unit per unit of time. This relationship is often used to solve integration problems involving e^(ix).

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