Riemann Criterion for Integrability - Stoll: Theorem 6.17

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Stoll's proof of the Riemann Criterion for Integrability, specifically Theorem 6.17 from "Introduction to Real Analysis." Participants clarify that if a function \( f \) is integrable on \([a,b]\), then both the upper and lower Riemann sums converge to the integral, leading to inequalities (3) and (4) being valid. The proof hinges on the definitions of supremum and infimum, confirming that the Riemann integral exists only when these values are equal. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these foundational concepts in real analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Riemann integrability
  • Familiarity with supremum and infimum definitions
  • Knowledge of partitions in the context of integration
  • Basic concepts of real analysis as presented in Stoll's "Introduction to Real Analysis"
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the definitions of supremum and infimum in detail
  • Review Stoll's Theorem 6.17 and its proof in "Introduction to Real Analysis"
  • Explore Matthew A. Pons' "Real Analysis for the Undergraduate" for additional insights
  • Practice constructing Riemann sums and understanding their convergence properties
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in real analysis, mathematicians focusing on integration theory, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Riemann integrability and its foundational principles.

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I am reading Manfred Stoll's book: Introduction to Real Analysis.

I need help with Stoll's proof of Riemann's Criterion for Integrability - Stoll: Theorem 6.17

Stoll's statement of this theorem and its proof reads as follows:
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/3941In the above proof we read the following:

" ... ... Conversely, suppose $$f$$ is integrable on $$[a,b]$$. Let $$\epsilon \gt 0$$ be given. Then there exist partitions $$\mathscr{P}_1$$ and $$\mathscr{P}_2$$ of $$[a,b]$$ such that

$$\mathscr{U}( \mathscr{P}_2 , f ) - \int^b_a f \lt \frac{ \epsilon }{2}$$ ... ... ... (3)$$\int^b_a f - \mathscr{L}( \mathscr{P}_1 , f ) \lt \frac{ \epsilon }{2}$$ ... ... ... (4)

... ... "My problem is that I am concerned as to why exactly (3) (4) follow ... ...

(I know they seem plausible ... but what is a rigorous argument to say they hold ... )Presumably (3) (4) follow because

$$\overline{\int^b_a}f = \text{inf} \{ \mathscr{U}( \mathscr{P} , f ): \mathscr{P} \text{ is a partition of } [a,b] \}$$

and

$$\underline{\int^b_a}f = \text{sup} \{ \mathscr{L}( \mathscr{P} , f ): \mathscr{P} \text{ is a partition of } [a,b] \}$$

and, further that

$$\int^b_a f = \underline{\int^b_a} f = \overline{\int^b_a} f
$$

Is this correct?

However ... ... even if this is correct I am concerned to see an rigorous and exact explanation of why (3) and (4) above are true ...

Can someone please help?

Peter
So MHB members who are interested can follow the notation and definitions behind this post I am now providing the first basic elements of Stoll's presentation of the the theory of integration ... as follows ... ...
View attachment 3942
View attachment 3943
View attachment 3944
View attachment 3945
 
Last edited:
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Hi Peter,

It follows from that, if the Riemann integral exists, then both infimum and supremum must exist and be equal to the integral.

Now take a paper, write down the infimum definition and the statement you want to prove, move your head a little bit away and realize they are the same. ;)
 
Fallen Angel said:
Hi Peter,

It follows from that, if the Riemann integral exists, then both infimum and supremum must exist and be equal to the integral.

Now take a paper, write down the infimum definition and the statement you want to prove, move your head a little bit away and realize they are the same. ;)
Yes ... probably overthinking this issue ...

Thanks Fallen Angel ...

Peter
 
Peter said:
Yes ... probably overthinking this issue ...

Thanks Fallen Angel ...

Peter
Hi again Fallen Angel ...

Your post sent me searching my various texts for definitions and propositions concerning supremums and infimums to ensure I understod the notions and what they implied ...

One of the books was Matthew A. Pons book: Real Analysis for the Undergraduate ... and ... after his definition of a supremum we find Lemma 1.2.10 and some remarks on it and the proof ... ! .. just what I wanted ...

I am now studying the remarks and the proof ...

For the interests of MHB members, here is the definition followed by Lemma 1.2.10 and its proof ...
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/3946
View attachment 3947I think Lemma 1.2.10 thoroughly clarifies the issue ...

My admiration for Pons as a rigorous and clear text just went up a notch ...

Peter
 

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