What is the formal proof that a sequence diverges

In summary, when n approaches infinity, the limit of (n^2+1)/n is infinity. To formally prove that a sequence diverges, one can use L'Hopital's rule or show that for any large positive number M, there exists another number N for which, if n >= N, then the terms of the sequence will always be larger than M. This can be achieved by solving the inequality (n^2 + 1)/n > M for n and choosing an appropriate value for N.
  • #1
transgalactic
1,395
0
i got (n^2+1)/n
when n->infinity the limit is infinity.
what is the formal proof that a sequence diverges ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I don't know the formal proof off by heart, but you could use L'Hopital's rule to see that it diverges(?).
 
  • #3
transgalactic said:
i got (n^2+1)/n
when n->infinity the limit is infinity.
what is the formal proof that a sequence diverges ?

Show that for any (large, positive) number M, there exists another number N for which, if n >= N, then a_n > M.

So someone gives you a number M.
You find another number N so that a_N+1, a_N+2, a_N+3, ... all are larger than M.

For your sequence, solve (n^2 + 1)/n > M for n. From that, choose a number N.

Clear?
 

1. What is a sequence?

A sequence is a list of numbers that follow a specific pattern or rule.

2. How do you prove that a sequence diverges?

A sequence can be proven to diverge if the terms in the sequence approach infinity or negative infinity as the index of the terms increases.

3. What is the formal definition of a divergent sequence?

A formal definition of a divergent sequence is a sequence in which the limit of the terms does not exist or is equal to infinity or negative infinity.

4. What is the difference between a divergent sequence and a convergent sequence?

A divergent sequence does not have a finite limit, while a convergent sequence has a finite limit.

5. Can a sequence diverge to a specific value?

No, a sequence can only diverge to infinity or negative infinity, it cannot have a specific value as its limit.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
882
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
945
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
695
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
217
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
701
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
673
Replies
1
Views
564
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
34
Views
2K
Back
Top