Integration using delta function and step function

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the evaluation of an integral involving the delta function and the step function, specifically the integral of the form \(\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta(p^{2}-m^{2})\ \theta(p^{0})\). Participants explore various steps in the evaluation process and question the correctness of the results obtained.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an integral involving the delta function and step function, expressing uncertainty about their steps and the expected result.
  • Another participant suggests a change of variable to simplify the integral, leading to a different result, which raises questions about the previous calculations.
  • A third participant questions whether the discussion is more appropriate for the Relativity forum, indicating a potential mismatch in topic focus.
  • A later reply challenges the manipulation of the delta function and questions the expected answer, suggesting a different interpretation of the delta function properties.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correctness of the integral evaluation steps, with no consensus on the final result or the appropriateness of the methods used.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the properties of the delta function and the step function, as well as the implications of the change of variable suggested. The discussion does not clarify the mathematical steps leading to the differing results.

spaghetti3451
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I would like to evaluate the following integral:

##\displaystyle{\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta(p^{2}-m^{2})\ \theta(p^{0})}##

##\displaystyle{= \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta[(p^{0})^{2}-\omega^{2}]\ \theta(p^{0})}##

##\displaystyle{= \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta[(p^{0}+\omega)(p^{0}-\omega)]\ \theta(p^{0})}##

##\displaystyle{= \frac{1}{2\omega}\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta[(p^{0}+\omega)+(p^{0}-\omega)]\ \theta(p^{0})}##

##\displaystyle{= \frac{1}{2\omega}\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dp^{0}\ \delta(2p^{0})\theta(p^{0})}##

Have I made a mistake somewhere?

The answer is supposed to be ##\frac{1}{\omega}## but I'm not sure how to proceed next.
 
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I don't follow some of your steps so far. But if you want to be able to get rid of the integral, try a change of variable, making the variable over which we are integrating ##u=2p^0##.

The integral can then be evaluated quite simply. However I then get the answer ##1/4\omega##, which is why I am wondering about your earlier steps.
 
Would you recommend me to post this on the Relativity forum?

This question is better suited for that forum.
 
[tex] \delta(x^2 - \alpha^2) = \frac{1}{2|\alpha|} \left[\delta(x-\alpha) + \delta(x+\alpha) \right] \neq \frac{1}{2|\alpha|} \left[\delta( (x-\alpha) + (x+\alpha)) \right][/tex] which is what you seem to have done.
Are you sure the answer is supposed to be ##1/\omega## and not ##1/2\omega## though?
 
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