What is the integral representation of the Digamma function?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the integral representation of the Digamma function, specifically seeking to prove Dirichlet's integral representation. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of properties related to the Gamma function and its derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the integral representation of the Digamma function and provides a hint for proving Dirichlet's integral representation.
  • Another participant expresses admiration for the quick proof provided, indicating a positive reception of the mathematical argument.
  • A subsequent reply humorously comments on the potential distraction of interesting questions, suggesting a light-hearted tone in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express agreement on the mathematical content, but the discussion remains informal and does not delve into deeper technical disagreements or unresolved issues.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not address specific assumptions or limitations regarding the integral representation or the properties of the functions involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in advanced mathematical functions, particularly those studying properties of the Gamma and Digamma functions, may find this discussion relevant.

DreamWeaver
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For the Gamma function:

$$\Gamma(x) = \int_0^{\infty}t^{x-1}e^{-t}\, dt$$And the Digamma function:

$$\psi_0(x) = \frac{d}{dx}\log \Gamma(x) = \frac{\Gamma'(x)}{\Gamma(x)}$$Prove Dirichlet's integral representation for the Digamma function:$$\psi_0(x) = \int_0^{\infty} \frac{1}{z}\left( e^{-z} - \frac{1}{(1+z)^x} \right)\, dz$$Hint:

Evaluate the double integral

$$\int_{0}^{\infty}\int_{1}^{q}e^{-tz}\, dt\, dz$$

in two different ways, and equate the results.
 
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Consider

$$f(t) = \int^\infty_0 z^{t-1}\left(e^{-z}-\frac{1}{(1+z)^x} \right)dz = \Gamma(t)-\frac{ \Gamma(t) \Gamma(x-t)}{ \Gamma(x)}$$

$$f(t)= \frac{\Gamma(1+t)}{\Gamma(x)}\frac{ \Gamma(x) -\Gamma(x-t)}{t}$$

Now take the limit as $t\to 0$

$$ \frac{1}{\Gamma(x)}\lim_{t \to 0}\frac{ \Gamma(x) -\Gamma(x-t)}{t}= \frac{\Gamma'(x)}{\Gamma(x)}=\psi(x)$$
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
Consider

$$f(t) = \int^\infty_0 z^{t-1}\left(e^{-z}-\frac{1}{(1+z)^x} \right)dz = \Gamma(t)-\frac{ \Gamma(t) \Gamma(x-t)}{ \Gamma(x)}$$

$$f(t)= \frac{\Gamma(1+t)}{\Gamma(x)}\frac{ \Gamma(x) -\Gamma(x-t)}{t}$$

Now take the limit as $t\to 0$

$$ \frac{1}{\Gamma(x)}\lim_{t \to 0}\frac{ \Gamma(x) -\Gamma(x-t)}{t}= \frac{\Gamma'(x)}{\Gamma(x)}=\psi(x)$$
Crikey! That was a very quick proof... Very impressive! (Rock)(Rock)(Rock)
 
Not that quick. Especially if I had used my phone. Don't post lots of interesting questions for otherwise I'll spend the whole day typing... Just kiddin'
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
Not that quick. Especially if I had used my phone. Don't post lots of interesting questions for otherwise I'll spend the whole day typing... Just kiddin'

He he! Just for that, I'm going to post more, not less... (Hug)
 

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