Proving 1/2 Series Converges Using Mathematical Induction

In summary, we defined the set P as the smallest subset of real numbers where 0 belongs to P and if k belongs to P then k+1 belongs to P. We also formulated the induction principle that states if a subset B of P has 0 and if k belongs to B then k+1 belongs to B, then B equals P. Finally, we applied the induction principle to prove that 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2...+1/2^i = 2-1/2^n for all non-negative integers n.
  • #1
annitaz
1
0
(a) Give a recursive definition of the set P of all non negative integers,
(b) formulate the applicable induction principle and
(c) then apply the induction principle to prove that 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2...+1/2^i = 2-1/2^n for n>=0

I have solved parts a and b and stuck on c

(a) P is the smallest subset of R (Real numbers) such that 0 belongs to P and if k belongs to P then also k+1 belongs to P. Recursive definition

(b) If a subset B of P is such that 0 belongs to B and if k belongs to B then also k+1 belongs to B, then subset B is equal to P. Induction principle

(c) Proof:
Step 1:
Let B = {n│ n belongs to P, 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2…+1/2^n = 2-1/2^n}

Step 2:
0 belongs to B: 0 belongs to B because 1/2^0 =2- 1/2^0 Therefore 1 = 1

Step 3:
Let k belong to B, thus 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2…+1/2^k = 2-1/2^k
Is k+1 belong to B? I am stuck Here

Any ideas?
 
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  • #2
Step 3: Let k belong to B, thus 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2…+1/2^k = 2-1/2^k Is k+1 belong to B? Yes, k+1 belongs to B. We have 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2…+1/2^k+1/2^(k+1) = 2-1/2^k +1/2^(k+1) Using the inductive hypothesis, we have 2-1/2^k +1/2^(k+1) = 2-1/2^(k+1) Therefore, k+1 belongs to B. Step 4: Therefore, by induction, B is equal to P and hence 1/2^0+1/2^1+1/2^2…+1/2^n = 2-1/2^n for all n in P
 

1. What is mathematical induction?

Mathematical induction is a proof technique used to prove that a statement or formula holds true for all natural numbers. It involves showing that the statement is true for the first natural number, then showing that if it is true for a particular natural number, it is also true for the next natural number.

2. How is mathematical induction used to prove the convergence of a series?

To prove that a series converges using mathematical induction, we first show that the statement holds true for the base case, usually the first term of the series. Then, we assume that the statement is true for a particular term, and use this assumption to show that it is also true for the next term. If we can show that the statement is true for all natural numbers, then we can conclude that the series converges.

3. What is the difference between strong and weak induction?

In strong induction, we use the assumption that the statement is true for all previous terms in addition to the current term, while in weak induction, we only use the assumption that the statement is true for the previous term. Strong induction is often used for more complex proofs, while weak induction is used for simpler proofs.

4. Can mathematical induction be used to prove the divergence of a series?

No, mathematical induction can only be used to prove the convergence of a series. To prove the divergence of a series, other methods such as the divergence test or comparison test must be used.

5. Are there any common mistakes to avoid when using mathematical induction to prove convergence?

Yes, some common mistakes include assuming the statement is true for all natural numbers without actually proving it, assuming the statement is true for the wrong base case, and using incorrect logic to show that the statement is true for the next term. It is important to carefully follow the steps of mathematical induction and double check all assumptions and logic to avoid these mistakes.

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