What is the Integral Mean Value Theorem for Continuous Functions?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The Integral Mean Value Theorem for Continuous Functions states that for continuous functions g and h defined on the interval [a,b], with h(x) ≥ 0 for all x in [a,b], there exists a point c in (a,b) such that the equation ∫ h(x)g(x)dx = g(c) ∫ h(x)dx holds true. The discussion highlights the importance of continuity and the non-negativity of h in establishing this theorem. Participants explored the implications of the theorem and its relationship to the Cauchy Integral Remainder Theorem, emphasizing the need for careful application of the Mean Value Theorem in integral contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Mean Value Theorem for Integrals
  • Knowledge of continuous functions and their properties
  • Familiarity with integral calculus, specifically definite integrals
  • Concept of the Cauchy Integral Remainder Theorem
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the proof of the Integral Mean Value Theorem for Continuous Functions
  • Explore applications of the Cauchy Integral Remainder Theorem in calculus
  • Learn about the implications of continuity in integral calculus
  • Investigate the relationship between the Mean Value Theorem and integration techniques
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, calculus students, educators, and anyone interested in advanced calculus concepts, particularly those focusing on the properties of continuous functions and integral theorems.

WHOAguitarninja
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
Prove that if the functions g:[a,b] --> R and h:[a,b] --> R are continuous, with h(x)\geq0 for all x in [a,b] then there is a point c in (a,b) such that

\int h(x)g(x)dx = g(c) \int h(x)dx
when the integrals go from a to b


---
My immediate thought was Integral MVT, so I said

\int h(x)dx = (b-a)*h(c)

I then multiply by some g(c') with c' in (a,b), to obtain


g(c') \int h(x)dx = (b-a)*h(c)*g(c')

I'd then like to conclude
(b-a)*h(c)*g(c') = \int h(x)*g(x)
But I'm almost 100% positive that's not a valid step for c'=c, and then I'm not really using the integral MVT if I use c'=/= c.

My thoughts on this are that I'd like to show that because h and g are continuous there is some other number c'' in (a,b) such that h(c)*g(c')=h(c'')*g(c''), and that is equal to the integral I'm looking for. I also have so far completely ignored h(x) being greater than or equal to 0, and I'm pretty sure that should factor in in some way.

Also, this problem appears in a section about the Cauchy Integral Remainder Theorem, although this book frequently gives problems where the necessary theorems do not lie in the chapter you are on to keep you on your toes.

Thanks in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Let M=max(g) and m=min(g) on [a,b]. Write bounds on the integral of g*h.
 
Dick said:
Let M=max(g) and m=min(g) on [a,b]. Write bounds on the integral of g*h.

Ah, good call, even simpler than I thought, thanks!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K