A What is the unique special function in this integral problem?

Click For Summary
The integral problem presented involves a special function related to the ordinary beta function, expressed as $$\int_0^{\infty}\frac{t^{\frac{m+1}{n}-1}}{1+t}dt=\mathcal{B}(\frac{m+1}{n},1-\frac{m+1}{n})$$. This function is identified as the Euler's Beta function with specific arguments that may appear complex. A suggested approach is to substitute ##\frac{m+1}{n}## with ##\alpha##, perform the integration, and then revert to the original variables. The discussion emphasizes that the integral can be simplified using a well-known transformation involving beta function properties. Understanding these transformations can clarify the integral's evaluation and its relationship to the beta function.
Fred Wright
Messages
376
Reaction score
229
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?
 
  • Like
Likes benorin and Delta2
Physics news on Phys.org
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.
 
\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).
 
  • Like
Likes benorin and Delta2