Mathematica newbie: why won't this integrate?

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a user attempting to integrate the function ψ[x] over the entire real line using Mathematica. The user faced performance issues, as the integration process stalled without yielding a result. A participant suggested using the NIntegrate function instead of the standard Integrate, indicating that Mathematica may struggle with finding an exact solution for complex integrals. The user later confirmed that they resolved the issue, implying a successful integration was achieved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with Mathematica 12.0 syntax and functions
  • Understanding of numerical integration techniques
  • Knowledge of symbolic integration limitations
  • Basic proficiency in defining and manipulating mathematical functions
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This discussion is beneficial for Mathematica users, particularly those dealing with complex integrals, mathematicians seeking numerical solutions, and anyone interested in optimizing their use of Mathematica for mathematical computations.

Flanz
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EDIT: I solved it. Sorry for waste of time! :(

Here is the function ψ[x]:

0.0000551056 a0.25 (30240. a0.5 x - 80640. a1.5 x3 +
48384. a2.5 x5 - 9216. a3.5 x7 + 512. a4.5 x9)(-((a x2)/2))

I am trying to integrate ψ[x]*ψ[x] over all space (-infinity to +infinity).

I don't get any error messages... it just says "running" for a good 5 minutes. Then it grinds to a halt and spits out the integral in its unsolved form.

I have attached the notebook file if anyone is curious. I'm just really stumped on this one.
 

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I didn't look at your notebook but sounds like you're trying to find an exact answer which Mathematica cannot find. When it can't integrate it does what you say it does. Surely you're trying to find a numerical result right? Why not use NIntegrate?
 

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