Dirichlet-function

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The function $D(x)$ which is equal to one at the rational points and to zero at the irrational points. It is also defined by the formula:

$$D(x)=\lim_{m\to\infty}\lim_{n\to\infty}(\cos m!\pi x)^{2n},$$

and belongs to the second Baire class (cf. Baire classes). It is not Riemann integrable on any segment but, since it is equal to zero almost-everywhere, it is Lebesgue integrable.

References

 [1] I.P. Natanson, "Theorie der Funktionen einer reellen Veränderlichen" , H. Deutsch , Frankfurt a.M. (1961) (Translated from Russian)

Comment

This function is periodic, with any non-zero rational number as period.

How to Cite This Entry:
Dirichlet-function. Encyclopedia of Mathematics. URL: http://encyclopediaofmath.org/index.php?title=Dirichlet-function&oldid=42322
This article was adapted from an original article by L.D. Kudryavtsev (originator), which appeared in Encyclopedia of Mathematics - ISBN 1402006098. See original article