Does the series arctan n converge?

  • Thread starter Bazzinga
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In summary, the series arctan n is a mathematical series representing the arctangent function, written as Σ arctan n = arctan 1 + arctan 2 + arctan 3 + ... + arctan n. It converges if the limit of the series as n approaches infinity exists and is finite, and this can be determined using convergence tests such as the Ratio Test or Comparison Test. The series converges conditionally and its value when it converges is approximately 1.5708 radians or 90 degrees. However, the series can also be divergent if the limit does not exist or is infinite.
  • #1
Bazzinga
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I'm sure it doesn't, but how do I find out?

[tex]\sum^{infinity}_{n=1} arctan (n)[/tex]

I thought about using the integral test, but it's not decreasing. Any hints?

Could I somehow use proof by induction to show that its an increasing function?
 
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  • #2
What is [tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow +\infty}{arctan(n)}[/tex]?? Does this tell you something about convergence?
 
  • #3
pi/2, so by the test for divergence it must diverge! Ohh
 
  • #4
Correct! A good advice: Always apply the test for divergence first!
 
  • #5
Thanks :)
 
  • #6
micromass said:
Correct! A good advice: Always apply the test for divergence first!
Especially since it's probably the easiest test.
 

1. What is the series arctan n?

The series arctan n is a mathematical series that represents the arctangent function, which is the inverse of the tangent function. It is written as Σ arctan n = arctan 1 + arctan 2 + arctan 3 + ... + arctan n.

2. How do you know if the series arctan n converges?

In order for the series arctan n to converge, the limit of the series as n approaches infinity must exist and be a finite number. This can be determined by using various convergence tests, such as the Ratio Test or the Comparison Test.

3. Does the series arctan n converge absolutely or conditionally?

The series arctan n converges conditionally, meaning that it converges but not absolutely. This can be shown by using the Alternating Series Test, which states that if a series alternates in sign and the absolute value of its terms decreases, then the series converges conditionally.

4. What is the value of the series arctan n when it converges?

The value of the series arctan n when it converges is approximately 1.5708 radians or 90 degrees. This can be determined by using the formula for the arctangent function, which is arctan x = tan-1 x.

5. Can the series arctan n be divergent?

Yes, the series arctan n can be divergent. This would occur if the limit of the series as n approaches infinity does not exist or is infinite. In this case, the series would not converge and would be considered divergent.

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