Why is \delta'(y) = -\delta'(-y)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the identity \(\delta'(y) = -\delta'(-y)\) in the context of distributions, specifically focusing on the properties of the Dirac delta function and its derivative.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to demonstrate the identity using integration by parts and a test function, leading to a comparison of the left-hand side and right-hand side of the equation. Some participants question the differentiation of the test function and its implications at specific points.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of the derivative of the test function at zero. There is an acknowledgment of a potential sign discrepancy in the original poster's reasoning, and some guidance has been offered regarding the differentiation process.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the properties of derivatives of functions at specific points, particularly in relation to the behavior of the Dirac delta function and its derivative. There is a request for a proof regarding the relationship between the derivatives of the test function.

signalcarries
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Homework Statement



I'm trying to prove that [tex]\delta'(y)=-\delta'(-y)[/tex].

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I'm having trouble getting the LHS and the RHS to agree. I've used a test function [tex]f(y)[/tex] and I am integrating by parts.

For the LHS, I have
[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} f(y)\delta'(y)dy = \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \frac{d}{dy}[f(y)\delta(y)]dy - \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \delta(y)\frac{df(y)}{dy}dy = 0 - f'(0) = -f'(0)[/tex]

For the RHS, I have
[tex]-\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} f(y)\delta'(-y)dy = \int_{\infty}^{-\infty} f(-t)\delta'(t)dt = -\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} f(-t)\delta'(t)dt = -\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \frac{d}{dt} [f(-t)\delta(t)]dt + \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \frac{df(-t)}{dt} \delta(t)dt = 0 + \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} \frac{df(-t)}{dt} \delta(t)dt = f'(0)[/tex].

I seem to be off by a minus sign, but I can't figure out where. Any help would be appreciated.
 
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df(-t)/dt=-df(t)/dt at t=0.
 
Yes, I suppose it does. Thanks!
 
Dick said:
df(-t)/dt=-df(t)/dt at t=0.

A proof of the above statement would be more helpful.
 
the_amateur said:
A proof of the above statement would be more helpful.

Chain rule.
 

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