Taylor Series for ln(1-3x) about x = 0 | Homework Question

In summary, a Taylor series is a representation of a function as an infinite sum of terms, calculated by taking derivatives at a specific point and plugging them into a formula. They are important because they simplify complex functions and aid in problem-solving in various fields. A Maclaurin series is a special case of a Taylor series with a center point of 0, and not all functions can be represented by a Taylor series due to convergence limitations.
  • #1
ganondorf29
54
0

Homework Statement


Determine the Taylor Series for f(x) = ln(1-3x) about x = 0

Homework Equations



ln(1+x) = [tex]\sum\fract(-1)^n^+^1 x^n /{n}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



ln(1-3x) = ln(1+(-3x))

ln(1+(-3x)) = [tex]\sum\fract(-1)^n^+^2 x^3^n /{n}[/tex]

Is that right?
 
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  • #2
The -1 is in the right place, but I'm not sure why the 3 migrated to the exponent.
 
  • #3
So is it:
[tex]
\sum\fract(-1)^n^+^2 3x^n /{n}
[/tex]
 
  • #4
You check it yourself by computing the first couple of terms in the Taylor series.
 

1. What is a Taylor series?

A Taylor series is a mathematical representation of a function as an infinite sum of terms, where each term is a derivative of the function evaluated at a specific point.

2. Why are Taylor series important?

Taylor series are important because they allow us to approximate complex functions with simpler ones, making it easier to analyze and solve problems in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics.

3. How is a Taylor series calculated?

A Taylor series is calculated by taking the derivatives of a function at a specific point and then plugging those values into the general Taylor series formula, which is f(x) = f(a) + f'(a)(x-a) + f''(a)(x-a)^2/2! + ...

4. What is the difference between a Taylor series and a Maclaurin series?

A Maclaurin series is a special case of a Taylor series, where the center point a is equal to 0. This means that the Maclaurin series formula is simplified to f(x) = f(0) + f'(0)(x) + f''(0)(x)^2/2! + ...

5. Can a Taylor series represent any function?

No, not all functions can be represented by a Taylor series. The function must be infinitely differentiable at the point where the series is centered, and the series may only converge within a certain radius of convergence.

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