Proof that Bessel functions tend to zero when x approaches infinity

AI Thread Summary
Bessel functions of any order p approach zero as x approaches infinity, but the reasoning behind this behavior is not immediately clear from their series formula. An integral representation of Bessel functions is suggested as a potentially more useful tool for understanding their limiting behavior. The discussion also references Bessel's differential equation, indicating that analyzing its limit as x tends to infinity may provide insights. The challenge remains in proving that the second derivative of the Bessel function approaches zero and that the first derivative remains finite. Overall, the conversation centers on finding a rigorous proof for the limit of Bessel functions at infinity.
Monsterman222
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I am aware that Bessel functions of any order p 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:

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}

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

\lim_{x\to\infty}J_p\left(x\right)=0
 
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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.

J_n(x) = \frac{1}{\pi} \int_0^\pi \cos (n \lambda - x \sin \lambda) d\lambda
 
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:
x^2 \frac{d^2 y}{dx^2} + x \frac{dy}{dx} + (x^2 - p^2)y = 0
we can take the limit of this as x tneds to infinity, substitute J_p\left(x\right) and divide by x^2, giving

\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

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