Does $\int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx}$ Converge?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the convergence of the integral \int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx} for all values of n greater than 0. It is shown that the function converges to 0 and is integrable. The method of using integration by parts and the comparison test is suggested to prove the convergence. However, it is noted that this method does not help determine the exact value that the integral converges to. "sinc" is mentioned as a common function used in various books, including physics books.
  • #1
bomba923
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[itex] \forall n > 0,\;n \in \mathbb{R} [/itex], does
[tex] \int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx} [/tex]
converge? If so, to what?
 
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  • #2
It's a function of "n".It converges for every possible "n".

[tex] \int_{n}^{\infty} \mbox{sinc} \ x \ dx =\frac{\pi}{2}-\mbox{Si}\ (x) [/tex].

Daniel.
 
  • #3
hello there

well I have attached a plot of the intergrand, as you would see the function converges to 0 and should be integrable

Steven
 

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  • #4
bomba923 said:
[itex] \forall n > 0,\;n \in \mathbb{R} [/itex], does
[tex] \int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx} [/tex]
converge? If so, to what?

you can prove that it converges by multiplying the integrand by 1 (in this case pick x/x or x^2/x^2 or something) & use integration by parts, & then the comparison test. i don't think that helps find what it converges to but judging by the image it looks like it goes to 0.
 
  • #5
steven187 said:
...a plot of the intergrand Steven

Hey um, where can I download/get this program? :redface:
 
  • #6
What program...?

"sinc" is graphed in a ton of books.It's even in physics books when discussing Fraunhofer diffraction from single or multiple slits.

Daniel.
 

1. What is the definition of convergence in terms of integrals?

The definition of convergence for integrals is that the integral of a function exists and has a finite value as the upper limit of integration approaches infinity.

2. What is the significance of the function $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ in determining convergence?

The function $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ is commonly used in integral convergence tests because it is a common example of a function that oscillates, making it difficult to determine convergence through other means.

3. How does the value of $n$ affect the convergence of $\int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx}$?

The value of $n$ does not affect the convergence of the integral. As long as the lower limit of integration is a finite number, the integral will either converge or diverge based on the behavior of the function as the upper limit approaches infinity.

4. What are some common methods for determining the convergence of $\int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx}$?

Some common methods for determining the convergence of this integral include the comparison test, the limit comparison test, and the alternating series test.

5. Is it possible for $\int\limits_n^\infty {\frac{{\sin x}} {x}dx}$ to diverge?

Yes, it is possible for the integral to diverge. This can occur if the function $\frac{\sin x}{x}$ oscillates in a way that prevents the integral from approaching a finite value as the upper limit of integration approaches infinity.

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