Is Every Continuous Function on [-1,1] Riemann-Integrable?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether every continuous function on the interval [-1,1] is Riemann-integrable, particularly in relation to a step function defined as f(x) = 0 for x < 0 and f(x) = 1 for x ≥ 0. Participants explore the implications of this question, seek clarifications on terminology, and consider related concepts such as Riemann-Stieltjes integrals.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that every continuous function on [-1,1] is Riemann-integrable, citing the bounded nature of such functions.
  • Others express confusion about the meaning of being "in Riemann wrt" another function, specifically the step function theta(x).
  • A later reply suggests that R(θ) may refer to the set of functions whose Riemann-Stieltjes integral exists, prompting further inquiry into definitions.
  • Some participants note that the theorem regarding continuous functions and monotone non-decreasing functions implies integrability, but express uncertainty about how to prove the original question or its follow-up regarding left continuous functions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the original question, and multiple competing views remain regarding the definitions and implications of Riemann integrability in this context.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the definitions of R(θ) and the conditions under which functions are considered Riemann-integrable, as well as the implications of continuity and monotonicity.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to students and practitioners in mathematics, particularly those studying integration theory and its applications.

mm1239
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Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x)

Is this True/False- and demonstrate with a short proof or counterexample:

Let f(x) be the step function f(x) = 0 if x<0, f(x) = 1 if x>= (greater than or equal to) 0. Every continuous function on [-1,1] is in Riemann(x).

Thanks in advance for the help!
 
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Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

mm1239 said:
Let f(x) be the step function f(x) = 0 if x<0, f(x) = 1 if x>= (greater than or equal to) 0. Every continuous function on [-1,1] is in Riemann(x).
What is Riemann(x)? And what do you think yourself about the question?
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

Sorry I think the question should actually end with "is in Riemann wrt f"

I think the answer is true since the function is clearly bounded and we can show f to be integrable. Is that correct?

Evgeny.Makarov said:
What is Riemann(x)? And what do you think yourself about the question?
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

mm1239 said:
Sorry I think the question should actually end with "is in Riemann wrt f"
Sorry, but it is still not clear to me what it means for a function to be in Riemann wrt another function.
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

Yes, I'm not sure either. The exact question is:

"Is the following question true or false? Motivate your answer with a short proof or counterexample:

Let theta(x) be the step function theta(x) = 0 if x<0 and theta(x) = 1 if x>= 0. Every continuous function on [-1,1] is in R(theta)."

There's also a follow-up question that asks whether "every left continuous function on [-1,1] is in R(theta)."

Evgeny.Makarov said:
Sorry, but it is still not clear to me what it means for a function to be in Riemann wrt another function.
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

You have to find out the definition of R(θ) in your textbook or lecture notes. The only guess I have is that it may denote the set of functions \(f\) whose Riemann–Stieltjes integral \(\int f(x)\,d\theta(x)\) exists. Maybe someone has a better guess.
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

Just looked it up- that's it! Still not sure how to prove this or the follow-up question though- any idea?

Evgeny.Makarov said:
You have to find out the definition of R(θ) in your textbook or lecture notes. The only guess I have is that it may denote the set of functions \(f\) whose Riemann–Stieltjes integral \(\int f(x)\,d\theta(x)\) exists. Maybe someone has a better guess.
 
Re: Let f(x) be the step f'n f(x)=0 if x<0, f(x)=1 if x>=0. Every cts. f'n on [-1,1] is in Riemann{x

mm1239 said:
Just looked it up- that's it! Still not sure how to prove this or the follow-up question though- any idea?
This is a completely standard theorem is R-S integrals.
If $f$ is continuous on $[a,b]$ and $g$ is monotone non-decreasing there then $f$ is $g\text{-integerable}$ on $[a,b]$.

In this case it almost trivial. Any division of $[-1,1]$ has a refinement that includes 0 as an endpoint.
On any sub interval $[x_j,x_k]$ in the refinement if $x_k\ne 0$ then $\theta(x_k)-\theta(x_j)=0$.

Also, you know that $f$ is uniformity continuous on $[-1,1]$.
 

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