Special Funcs: Evaluating $$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the evaluation of the integral $$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$ using special functions. Participants explore different substitution methods and the potential use of special functions like the Exponential Integral and the Incomplete Gamma function. The scope includes theoretical exploration and mathematical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that there is no elementary antiderivative for the integral $$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$ and seek advice on evaluating it using special functions.
  • One participant suggests using the substitution $u = \sqrt{x}$, leading to the integral $$\int \frac{2}{\ln(u^2)} du$$ but expresses uncertainty about how to proceed with special functions.
  • Another participant proposes a different substitution, $u = \ln(x)$, transforming the integral into $$\int \frac{e^{u/2}}{u}\,du$$ and relates it to the Exponential Integral function, indicating a potential path forward.
  • A later reply mentions the Incomplete Gamma function as another avenue for exploration.
  • There is a query about evaluating the definite integral $$\int_{2}^{3} f(x) \,dx$$, indicating an interest in numerical evaluation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the integral does not have an elementary antiderivative and that special functions may be necessary for evaluation. However, multiple approaches are suggested, and no consensus on a single method or solution is reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the steps involved in evaluating the integral and the specific properties of the special functions mentioned. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical intricacies or assumptions underlying the substitutions proposed.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in advanced calculus, integral evaluation, and the application of special functions in mathematical analysis may find this discussion relevant.

Amad27
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Hi,

Recently, I had stumbled across:

$$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$
Let $f(x) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$

I noticed there is no elementary antiderivative. I want to evaluate this using special functions, but as of right now, I would like some advice as I have no clue about special functions.

Let $u = \sqrt{x}$

$$ = \int \frac{2}{ln(u^2)} du$$

This is where it gets interesting, there is no elementary antiderivative, then how can we evaluate this in terms of special functions.

And AFTER THAT I want to experiment with

$$\int_{2}^{3} f(x) \,dx$$

thanks!
 
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Olok said:
Hi,

Recently, I had stumbled across:

$$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$
Let $f(x) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$

I noticed there is no elementary antiderivative. I want to evaluate this using special functions, but as of right now, I would like some advice as I have no clue about special functions.

Let $u = \sqrt{x}$

$$ = \int \frac{2}{ln(u^2)} du$$

This is where it gets interesting, there is no elementary antiderivative, then how can we evaluate this in terms of special functions.

And AFTER THAT I want to experiment with

$$\int_{2}^{3} f(x) \,dx$$

thanks!

Setting $\displaystyle x=e^{u}$ the integral becomes...

$\displaystyle \int \frac{d x}{\sqrt{x}\ \ln x} = \int \frac{e^{\frac{u}{2}}}{u}\ d u = \text{Ei}\ (\frac{u}{2}) + c\ (1)$

... so that your 'special function' is the Exponential Integral Function...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Olok said:
Hi,

Recently, I had stumbled across:

$$\int \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$$
Let $f(x) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)}$

I noticed there is no elementary antiderivative. I want to evaluate this using special functions, but as of right now, I would like some advice as I have no clue about special functions.

Let $u = \sqrt{x}$

$$ = \int \frac{2}{ln(u^2)} du$$

This is where it gets interesting, there is no elementary antiderivative, then how can we evaluate this in terms of special functions.

And AFTER THAT I want to experiment with

$$\int_{2}^{3} f(x) \,dx$$

thanks!

Hello again Olok,

I suggest letting $u = \ln(x)$ instead, so that $x = e^u$ and $dx = e^u\, du$. Thus

$$ \int \frac{dx}{\sqrt{x}\ln(x)} = \int \frac{e^u\, du}{e^{u/2}\,u} = \int \frac{e^{u/2}}{u}\,du.$$

Letting $v = -u/2$, $dv/v = du/u$, and so

$$ \int \frac{e^{u/2}}{u}\, du = \int \frac{e^{-v}}{v}\, dv.$$

Although we're dealing with indefinite integrals, the last integral is closely related to the exponential integral,

$$\text{Ei}(x) = \int_x^\infty \frac{e^{-t}}{t}\, dt.$$
 
Hi,

So can we find the definite integral of that from

$2$ to $3$?
 

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