Understanding the Limit as n Approaches Infinity in Calculus

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SUMMARY

The limit as n approaches infinity for the expression \(\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n + 1} \right)^{n}\) converges to the mathematical constant \(e\). This is established through the equivalence to \(\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n} \right)^{n} = e\). The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing substitutions, such as \(m = n + 1\), to simplify the limit evaluation. The confusion arises from the manipulation of the exponent and the rationale behind dividing by \(n\), which does not contribute to the simplification of the limit.

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Nerpilis
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ok I have this limit question that was done in class but i didn't catch it at the time but they grazed over a step where I'm not sure what the reasoning was.
[tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n + 1} \right)^{n} = \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{ \frac{1}{n} }{ 1 + \frac{1}{n} } \right)^{n} = e[/tex]
I see the multiplication of one in the form of 1/n over 1/n and i know that [tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n} \right)^{n} = e[/tex] and i can see the similarity and possible substituions...but what happens to the 'n' exponet since it doesn't substitute nicely?
 
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I see no reason to divide the numerator and the denominator by n. You can simply use a substitution like m=n+1. Or write:
[tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n + 1} \right)^{n} = \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{n + 1} \right)^{n+1}\cdot \frac{1}{1+\frac{1}{n+1}}[/tex]
 
I think I'm a little more confused now...I do agree that i don't see what dividing by n did to help.
 

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