Infinitie Series: Converge/Diverge question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the series formed by the product of two convergent series with positive terms, specifically examining whether the series \(\sum A_k B_k\) converges given that both \(\sum A_k\) and \(\sum B_k\) are convergent. The scope includes theoretical reasoning and mathematical proofs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that since both series converge, the product series \(\sum A_k B_k\) must also converge, hinting at using a comparison test.
  • Another participant proposes applying the Cauchy-Schwarz inequality to establish convergence, indicating that the existence of \(\sum (A_n)^2\) is necessary for this proof.
  • A different viewpoint argues that the tails of both series approach zero, leading to the conclusion that the product series converges faster.
  • One participant points out that the positivity condition is essential for the argument, suggesting that neglecting it could lead to incorrect conclusions.
  • A participant acknowledges the necessity of the positivity condition but notes that they did not explicitly state it in their earlier comments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the convergence of the product series, with some supporting the idea that it converges under the given conditions, while others emphasize the importance of the positivity condition and suggest that dropping it could lead to divergence. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these conditions.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the necessity of the positivity condition for the convergence of the product series, and the discussion includes references to various mathematical tests and inequalities that may or may not apply depending on the conditions stated.

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this question doesn't look hard when i read it, but then when i tried doing it, i can't :frown:

Suppose [tex]\sum[/tex]Ak and [tex]\sum[/tex]Bk are both convergent series with positive terms. Does it follow that [tex]\sum[/tex]AkBk converges? Show your answer is correct with an appropriate proof/ counter example.

Thanks for help.
 
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Yes, it converges. Here's the hint:

since sum A_n converges, A_n tends to zero, hence for all k greater than some N, 0<=A_n< 1

now apply some comparison test to reach the conlcusion.


to make it more interesting how about:

Secondly, use the Cauchy schwartz inequality to prove the result (hint, you'll need to show sum (A_n)^2 exists.

Thirdly, show that if we drop the positivity conditions on the A_n and B_m then the result is false (hint alternating series test - if C_m is a sequence of positive terms tending to zero then sum (-1)^mC_m converges)
 
Since the tails of both the A series and the B series must ->0, the tail of the product series goes to 0 faster. To put it rigorously, there exists a K such that for all k>K, AkBk<Ak, therefore the series of products must converge.
 
You're not using the positivity condition, which is required. Though that is a small point.
 
(matt grime) I presume you remark was addressed to me. I didn't use the words. However, I know the positive condition was necessary, and I didn't bother using | | for the terms involved.
 

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