(definition)
Definition: The gamma function of n, written Γ(n), is ∫ 0∞ e-xxn-1dx. Recursively Γ(n+1) = nΓ(n). For non-negative integers Γ(n+1) = n!.
See also Stirling's formula.
Note: The gamma function is defined for all numbers whereas factorial is (strictly) only defined for non-negative integers.
Author: PEB
MathWorld's gamma function
If you have suggestions, corrections, or comments, please get in touch with Paul E. Black.
Entry modified 17 December 2004.
HTML page formatted Mon Sep 11 09:46:03 2006.
Cite this as:
Paul E. Black, "gamma function", in
Dictionary of Algorithms and Data
Structures [online], Paul E. Black, ed.,
U.S. National Institute of
Standards and Technology. 17 December 2004. (accessed TODAY)
Available from: http://www.nist.gov/dads/HTML/gammaFunction.html