\(\alpha\)-concave functions and a functional extension of mixed volumes (Q1948465)

Being a part of Brunn-Minkowski theory, mixed volumes of convex bodies are defined as polarizations of volume with respect to the Minkowski addition. The paper generalizes the theory in the following far-reaching setting. Convex bodies are replaced by \(\alpha\)-concave functions, where \(\alpha\) varies from \(-\infty\) to \(+\infty\). In turn, convex bodies appear as \(\alpha\)-concave functions for \(\alpha=\infty\). The smaller \(\alpha\) is, the bigger (by inclusion) class of functions we have. If \(\alpha=-\infty\), the functions are called quasi-concave and form the largest class. For them, a counterpart of dilation and Minkowski sum are introduced. As in the classical setting, this leads to functional extension of mixed volumes, the mixed integrals. The latter satisfy some generalization of Alexandrov inequalities.