Math Problem Statement

Find the values of p for which the integral ∫ from 2 to ∞ of 1/(x (ln x)^p) dx converges.

Solution

The problem asks for the values of pp for which the integral

21x(lnx)pdx\int_2^{\infty} \frac{1}{x (\ln x)^p} \, dx

converges.

To determine this, we will analyze the integral at its potential points of divergence, specifically at x=x = \infty. The behavior near x=2x = 2 is not problematic, as the integrand does not blow up. Therefore, the main issue is with xx \to \infty.

Step-by-Step Approach:

  1. Substitution to Simplify: Let’s use the substitution: u=lnxso thatdu=1xdx.u = \ln x \quad \text{so that} \quad du = \frac{1}{x} dx. This changes the bounds of integration:

    \quad \text{When } x \to \infty, \ u \to \infty.$$ The integral becomes: $$\int_{\ln 2}^{\infty} \frac{du}{u^p}.$$
  2. Analyzing Convergence: The behavior of the integral depends on the value of pp.

    • For p=1p = 1, the integral becomes ln2duu\int_{\ln 2}^{\infty} \frac{du}{u}, which is a divergent logarithmic integral.
    • For p>1p > 1, the integral becomes ln2updu\int_{\ln 2}^{\infty} u^{-p} \, du, which converges because the integral of upu^{-p} for p>1p > 1 yields a finite result.
    • For p<1p < 1, the integral behaves like u1pu^{1-p}, which diverges as uu \to \infty since the exponent 1p>01-p > 0.

Conclusion:

The integral converges for p>1p > 1.

Would you like further explanation or clarification on any step?


Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How does the substitution u=lnxu = \ln x simplify the analysis of the integral?
  2. What happens to the integral when p=1p = 1, and why does it diverge?
  3. Could you explore what happens if the lower bound of the integral changes, for example, to 1 instead of 2?
  4. What is the general criterion for convergence for integrals of the form 11xadx\int_1^\infty \frac{1}{x^a} dx?
  5. How can you relate this problem to the comparison test for improper integrals?

Tip: Whenever solving improper integrals, always examine the behavior near points of infinity or where the function could become unbounded.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Improper Integrals
Convergence of Integrals

Formulas

Substitution u = ln(x)
Integral of u^(-p)

Theorems

Convergence of improper integrals
Comparison test for integrals

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate (Calculus II or III)