Math Problem Statement

Show that Γ(n)Γ(1−n) = π / sin(nπ), given the integral ∫₀^∞ x^(n−1) / (1+x) dx = π / sin(nπ)

Solution

The problem asks to show the identity:

Γ(n)Γ(1n)=πsin(nπ)\Gamma(n) \Gamma(1 - n) = \frac{\pi}{\sin(n \pi)}

Given the integral:

0xn11+xdx=πsin(nπ)\int_0^{\infty} \frac{x^{n-1}}{1+x} dx = \frac{\pi}{\sin(n\pi)}

This result is closely related to the Euler reflection formula for the Gamma function, which is:

Γ(n)Γ(1n)=πsin(πn)\Gamma(n)\Gamma(1 - n) = \frac{\pi}{\sin(\pi n)}

Proof outline:

  1. Use the provided integral: The integral 0xn11+xdx\int_0^{\infty} \frac{x^{n-1}}{1+x} dx is a well-known integral related to the Beta function B(x,y)B(x,y) and can be expressed in terms of Gamma functions using the relationship: B(n,1n)=0xn11+xdxB(n, 1 - n) = \int_0^{\infty} \frac{x^{n-1}}{1+x} dx where B(n,1n)=Γ(n)Γ(1n)Γ(1)B(n, 1-n) = \frac{\Gamma(n)\Gamma(1-n)}{\Gamma(1)}. Since Γ(1)=1\Gamma(1) = 1, we have: B(n,1n)=Γ(n)Γ(1n)B(n, 1 - n) = \Gamma(n)\Gamma(1 - n)

  2. Relate the Beta function to the given integral: From the given information, we already know that the integral evaluates to πsin(nπ)\frac{\pi}{\sin(n\pi)}, hence: Γ(n)Γ(1n)=πsin(nπ)\Gamma(n)\Gamma(1 - n) = \frac{\pi}{\sin(n\pi)}

This completes the proof. Therefore, the identity Γ(n)Γ(1n)=πsin(nπ)\Gamma(n) \Gamma(1 - n) = \frac{\pi}{\sin(n\pi)} is verified using the given integral.

Would you like more details or a deeper exploration into the steps of this proof?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this concept:

  1. What is the Euler reflection formula and where is it used in other mathematical contexts?
  2. How is the Beta function related to the Gamma function, and how does it arise in integrals?
  3. Can you prove the integral formula 0xn11+xdx=πsin(nπ)\int_0^{\infty} \frac{x^{n-1}}{1+x} dx = \frac{\pi}{\sin(n\pi)} independently?
  4. How does the Gamma function generalize the factorial function for non-integer values?
  5. What are some common applications of the Gamma function in physics and engineering?

Tip: When dealing with Gamma functions and integrals, recognizing common forms like the Beta function can simplify proofs and connections between different areas of mathematics.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Gamma function
Beta function
Euler reflection formula
Integral calculus

Formulas

Γ(n)Γ(1−n) = π / sin(nπ)
∫₀^∞ x^(n−1) / (1+x) dx = π / sin(nπ)
B(n, 1-n) = Γ(n)Γ(1-n)

Theorems

Euler reflection formula
Beta-Gamma function relation

Suitable Grade Level

Advanced Undergraduate or Graduate Level (Math/Physics)