Solving Complex Integral: Cos(x^2) + Sin(x^2)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the evaluation of the integral \(\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2) \, \mathrm{d}x\) and the methods to approach it, including the use of complex analysis and properties of even functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant references a source claiming that the integral evaluates to \(\sqrt{2\pi}\) and seeks clarification on the evaluation process.
  • Another participant notes that since \(\cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2)\) is an even function, the integral can be simplified to \(2 \int_0^\infty \cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2) \,dx\).
  • A participant expresses confusion regarding the relationship between \(e^{-ix^2}\) and the integral of \(\cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2)\), questioning the significance of the minus sign in the complex exponential.
  • Another participant asserts that the minus sign does not affect the evaluation and suggests using results from previous calculations related to \(\int_0^\infty \cos(x^2) \, dx\) and \(\int_0^\infty \sin(x^2) \, dx\).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express different levels of understanding regarding the evaluation methods, and there is no consensus on the approach to take for the integral. Some participants agree on the even function property, while others remain uncertain about the implications of the complex exponential representation.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the integration techniques and the assumptions made about the properties of the functions involved. The discussion does not clarify the mathematical steps necessary to reach a conclusion.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying complex analysis, integral calculus, or mathematical methods in physics, particularly in relation to Fourier transforms and properties of even functions.

Nebuchadnezza
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I read in some text or book that the integral

[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2) \, \mathrm{d}x = \sqrt{2\pi}[/tex]

I was wondering how this is possible. I read on this site that one such possible way was to start by integrating

[tex]e^{-i x^2} = \cos(x^2) - i \cos(x^2)[/tex]

My knowledge about complex analysis is rather limited. Could anyone expain to me how the integral at the top is evaluated? (I know one could start of by noticing the symmetry about the y-axis. )

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=139465

Agomez, shows one way to do it. But it is not exactly the same as the integral above. Sigh, I feel stupid for not seeing this one...
 
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Because cos(x^2)+sin(x^2) is an even function, we have
[tex]\int_{-\infty}^\infty \cos(x^2)+\sin(x^2)\, dx = 2 \int_0^\infty \cos(x^2)+\sin(x^2) \,dx.[/tex]
Now use the results from agomez's calculations.
 
My main problem is that

$$ e^{-ix^2} = \cos(x^2) - i \sin(x^2) $$

Whilst this integral is [itex]\cos(x^2) + \sin(x^2)[/itex]. Does the minus sign change anything?
 
It changes nothing. All I'm saying is that you can use agomez's evaluation of [itex]\int_0^\infty \cos(x^2)\, dx[/itex] and [itex]\int_0^\infty \sin(x^2)\, dx[/itex].
 

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