Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the relationship between the integral of functions involving cosine, specifically the integral from -2π to 2π of (sin(2sinx) + cos(2cosx)dx), and its connection to Bessel functions. Participants explore various methods for evaluating the integral, including contour integration and numerical approaches, while also discussing properties of cosine functions.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Mathematical reasoning
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant proposes using contour integration to solve the integral but seeks further ideas on the approach.
- Another notes that since cosine oscillates between -1 and 1, the function cos(2cos(x)) oscillates between -2 and 2, suggesting that the period of the function is π rather than 2π.
- A different participant suggests rewriting the function as a shifted and scaled cosine wave, proposing to integrate over one period and then scale for the total range.
- One participant presents an expression involving an integral of cos²(cos(ax)) and discusses deriving an ordinary differential equation (ODE) from it.
- Several participants express confusion about the derivation of cos²(cos(ax)) and its relationship to Bessel functions, with one noting that the integral's answer is given in terms of Bessel functions.
- There are repeated assertions that errors were made in earlier calculations, with references to Wolfram Alpha for verification.
- One participant highlights that cos(cos(x)) relates to the real part of e^(ikr), which is defined in terms of Bessel functions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the evaluation of the integral or the derivation of the relationships discussed. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the methods and results presented.
Contextual Notes
There are unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the properties of cosine functions and their integrals. The discussion includes various interpretations of the relationships between the functions involved and Bessel functions.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to those studying advanced calculus, integral equations, or the applications of Bessel functions in mathematical physics.