Uniform Continuity: Int x to x^2 e^(-t^2) on (1,∞)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the uniform continuity of the integral \(\int_{x}^{x^2} e^{-t^2} \mathrm{d}t\) on the interval (1,∞). Participants explore the conditions under which a function is uniformly continuous, particularly focusing on the implications of bounded derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the theorem relating bounded derivatives to uniform continuity and the epsilon-delta definition. There are attempts to differentiate the integral and analyze the boundedness of the resulting expression. Questions arise about the sufficiency of proving bounded derivatives for uniform continuity.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various perspectives on proving uniform continuity through bounded derivatives. Some participants suggest that if boundedness can be established, it may eliminate the need for a detailed epsilon-delta proof. However, there is no explicit consensus on the adequacy of the arguments presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need to consider limits and boundedness carefully, especially in the context of infinity. There is also a reference to a related problem regarding the uniform continuity of a function defined in terms of another function's properties.

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Homework Statement


Is the following uniformly continuous on (1,∞)?
\int_{x}^{x^2}\: e^{-t^2}\mathrm{d}t

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Quite honestly I don't know where to start. I mean, I'm positive I have to use the theorem that says that if for all ε > 0 there exists δ > 0 so that for all x and y, |x - y| < δ implies |f(x) - f(y)| < ε. But that's all I got...

Thanks for your help.
 
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If you can show a function has bounded derivative over it's domain, then you've shown it's uniformly continuous. If you don't have that theorem yet, just remember the definition of differentiable. It has the epsilons and deltas you need.
 
Last edited:
\frac{\mathrm{d}}{\mathrm{d}x}\left(\int_{x}^{x^2}f(t)\,\mathrm{d}t \right)=2x\cdot e^{-x^4}-e^{-x^2}

Since x→2x, x→e-x4 and x→e-x2 are bounded on (1,∞), 2x\cdot e^{-x^4}-e^{-x^2} is bounded so it's proved.

Is all OK?
Thanks.

PS: I have a similar problem where you have to say whether this is true or false:
|f'(x)|<= K (constant) for -∞< x < ∞
0 < f(x) <= x2 for x >= 1
Then g(x) = f(x)/x is uniformly continuous on (1,∞).
xf'(x)/x2 is bounded and f(x)/x2 too therefore true.
 
Last edited:
If you've proved everything is bounded (like x*e^(-x^4), which does have to be proved, since it's an infinity*0 type of limit - 2x isn't bounded) and you have a theorem that says 'bounded derivative' -> 'uniformly continuous' and don't have to do an epsilon/delta proof, yes.
 
Oops, yeah I meant 2x is bounded if you don't consider infinity. It's easy to prove that limit, just set u = x4 and have u1/4/eu. What about the other question?
Thanks.
 
The other question was just if that proving it had a bounded derivative is enough to satisfy your homework grader. Only you can answer that.
 
Thanks a lot... I think I'm ready for tomorrow's exam now (lol)
 

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