Is There a Problem with My Graph Drawing Homework?

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster discusses a homework assignment involving the drawing of a running coupling constant graph, specifically focusing on the relationship defined by a given formula. The problem involves plotting the graph using Mathematica and ensuring the correct application of constants and logarithmic functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to plot a graph based on a specific formula but encounters difficulties in achieving the expected output. Participants question the consistency of units and the logarithmic bases used in the graphing process.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with the original poster identifying an error related to the sign of a constant. Participants have engaged in clarifying questions and sharing insights about common pitfalls in graphing and formula application.

Contextual Notes

There are mentions of reviewing multiple papers for reference, indicating a search for validation of constants and methods. The original poster's initial confusion about the logarithmic base used in the graphing process is also noted.

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Homework Statement



I need to draw the running coupling constant graph like this one:

running_coupling.gif


And I have a formula:

\frac{1}{\alpha(\mu)} = \frac{1}{\alpha(M_Z)} + \frac{b}{2\pi}\ln\frac{\mu}{M_{Z}}

And I have the necessary data to draw \frac{1}{\alpha_i(\mu)}-\log(\mu) graph (I have \alpha_i^{-1}(M_Z), b_i, and M_Z).

And I plug that in in Mathematica and I cannot seem to get that graph! I tried by replacing the \frac{1}{\alpha(\mu)} with y, and \log(\mu) with x, and plotting that, I've tried by not changing the logarithm, and making the LogPlot, but no go.

I really don't know what I'm doing wrong :(

I looked at 3 papers on this topic, to see if I got the constants wrong, but I didn't see anything different :|

arXiv:hep-ph/0012288v2, arXiv:0711.2903v1 [hep-ph], and arXiv:hep-ph/9705479v1

EDIT:

Never mind! I reversed the sign of the b somehow... xD
 
Last edited:
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so where is your graph for comparison?

You've checked the units ofmeasure for each quantity and constant you're using?

It looks like both x and y axes are log based. Are you using the same kind of chart?

The formula is using natural log base e and it looks like the sample chart is using log base 10.
 
I've found what I've done wrong. The b constants had reversed sign :D

Thanks anyway :D
 
That's good. Many times just explaining it helps you find your error.
 
jedishrfu said:
That's good. Many times just explaining it helps you find your error.

True that! :D

I do that sometimes with my friends, and in the midst of explaining them the issue, I find the solution :D
 

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