What is the unique special function in this integral problem?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a specific integral involving a special function, which some participants identify as related to the beta function. The integral in question is presented in the context of exploring its properties and finding references for further understanding.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an integral and questions the nature of a special function involved, suggesting it is not the standard beta function.
  • Another participant asserts that the integral corresponds to the ordinary beta function, providing links to external references for verification.
  • A third participant reiterates the claim about the ordinary beta function, emphasizing the clarity of the references provided.
  • One participant suggests that the integral can be simplified by substituting variables, indicating that the arguments may appear complex but are manageable with proper manipulation.
  • A later reply introduces a transformation of the integral, relating it to a different form of the beta function, hinting at a deeper connection between the two representations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the integral represents a unique special function or the ordinary beta function, indicating that multiple competing interpretations remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the nature of the integral and the definitions of the functions involved, which may not be fully clarified or agreed upon by all participants.

Fred Wright
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While studying the solution to a integral problem I found online I ran across a special function I am unfamiliar with. The integral is
$$
\int_0^{\infty}\frac{t^{\frac{m+1}{n}-1}}{1+t}dt=\mathcal{B}(\frac{m+1}{n},1-\frac{m+1}{n})
$$
This certainly isn't the normal beta function. What is it? Can anyone direct me to a reference on this function?
 
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It's just the "normal Euler's Beta function" in the RHS but with "intimidating arguments" :smile:. One trick is to simply replace ##\frac{m+1}{n} \equiv \alpha## in your exponent under the integral sign, do the integral and revert to ##m,n## at the end.
 
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\int_0^1 t^{p-1}(1-t)^{q-1}\,dt = \int_0^\infty \frac{z^{p-1}}{(z + 1)^{p+q}}\,dz where z = t/(1-t).
 
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