Proof that Bessel functions tend to zero when x approaches infinity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the behavior of Bessel functions as the variable x approaches infinity, specifically questioning why Bessel functions of any order p tend to zero in this limit. The scope includes theoretical exploration and mathematical reasoning related to Bessel functions and their properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that Bessel functions of any order p are zero as x approaches infinity but seeks a proof for this claim.
  • Another participant suggests that an integral identity for Bessel functions might provide more insight into their limiting behavior than the series representation.
  • A third participant introduces the differential equation that Bessel functions satisfy, implying that it may be relevant to understanding their behavior at infinity.
  • A later reply discusses taking the limit of Bessel's differential equation and expresses uncertainty about how to conclude that the second derivative of the Bessel function approaches zero and that the first derivative remains finite.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the proof of why Bessel functions tend to zero as x approaches infinity. Multiple approaches and perspectives are presented, but the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants express limitations in their current understanding and proofs, particularly regarding the behavior of derivatives of Bessel functions as x approaches infinity.

Monsterman222
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I am aware that Bessel functions of any order [itex]p[/itex] are zero in the limit where x approaches infinity. From the formula of Bessel functions, I can't see why this is. The formula is:

[tex]J_p\left(x\right)=\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{\left(-1\right)^n}{\Gamma\left(n+1\right)\Gamma\left(n+1+p\right)}\left(\frac{x}{2}\right)^{2n+p}[/tex]

Does anyone know a proof of why this is? That is, why is it that

[tex]\lim_{x\to\infty}J_p\left(x\right)=0[/tex]
 
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I don't a have proof right now, but you may find the following integral identity more useful in understanding the limiting behavior than the infinity sum identity you've been considering.

[tex]J_n(x) = \frac{1}{\pi} \int_0^\pi \cos (n \lambda - x \sin \lambda) d\lambda[/tex]
 
Have you considered the differential equation that the bessel functions solve?
 
Thanks for your help so far, but I'm still struggling with this one. From the representation of the Bessel function involving the integral, I still can't prove it.

Looking at Bessel's differential equation:
[tex]x^2 \frac{d^2 y}{dx^2} + x \frac{dy}{dx} + (x^2 - p^2)y = 0[/tex]
we can take the limit of this as x tneds to infinity, substitute [itex]J_p\left(x\right)[/itex] and divide by [itex]x^2[/itex], giving

[tex]\lim_{x\to\infty}J_{p}''\left(x\right)+\frac{J_{p}'\left(x\right)}{x} +\left(1-\frac{p^2}{x^2}\right)J_p\left(x\right)=0[/tex]

But now, to finish the proof, I'd need to show that [itex]J_{p}''\left(x\right)[/itex] goes to zero as x approaches infinity and that [itex]J_{p}'\left(x\right)[/itex] is finite. I'm not sure this approach is helpful.
 

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