Sequences and existence of limit 2

In summary, the conversation discusses how to prove that if a bounded sequence an has a limit of b as n approaches infinity and bn satisfies certain conditions, then the limit of an exists. The solution involves proving that the sequence bn is decreasing and its limit is 0, and then showing that if an converges to a limit, the inequality an+1 ≥ an - bn is always true. However, it is important to note that it cannot be assumed that an converges, as that is what needs to be proven.
  • #1
Felafel
171
0

Homework Statement



Let an be a bounded sequence and bn such that

the limit bn as n→∞ is b and

0<bn ≤ 1/2 (bn-1)

Prove that if:

an+1 ≥ an - bn,

then

lim an
n→∞

exists.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




as 0<bn ≤ 1/2 (bn-1) the sequence bn is decreasing.
thus its limit, b, is 0 (can i assume that?)

Then, assuming an converges to a limit, say p, the equation is:

p ≥ p - b where b=0

p ≥ p is true for every p.

Then, an is constant and therefore converges.

Does is it work like that?
 
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  • #2
Felafel said:

Homework Statement



Let an be a bounded sequence and bn such that

the limit bn as n→∞ is b and

0<bn ≤ 1/2 (bn-1)

Prove that if:

an+1 ≥ an - bn,

then

lim an
n→∞

exists.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




as 0<bn ≤ 1/2 (bn-1) the sequence bn is decreasing.
thus its limit, b, is 0 (can i assume that?)

Then, assuming an converges to a limit, say p, the equation is:
You can't assume that an converges. That's what you need to prove.
p ≥ p - b where b=0

p ≥ p is true for every p.

Then, an is constant and therefore converges.

Does is it work like that?
 

What is a sequence?

A sequence is a list of numbers that follow a specific pattern or rule. The numbers in a sequence are called terms and are denoted by the symbol "an", where n is the position of the term in the sequence.

What is a limit in a sequence?

A limit in a sequence is the value that a sequence approaches as the position of the terms increases. It is denoted by the symbol lim(an) as n approaches infinity.

What is the existence of a limit in a sequence?

The existence of a limit in a sequence means that the sequence has a finite limit value as the position of the terms increases. This means that the terms in the sequence become closer and closer to the limit value as n approaches infinity.

How is the limit of a sequence determined?

The limit of a sequence can be determined by observing the pattern of the terms and using mathematical techniques such as the squeeze theorem or the ratio test. It can also be determined by using a graphing calculator or computer software.

Why is the concept of limit important in sequences?

The concept of limit is important in sequences because it allows us to understand the behavior of a sequence as the position of the terms increases. It helps us determine if a sequence converges (approaches a finite limit) or diverges (does not approach a limit). This is important in many areas of science, such as physics and engineering, where sequences are used to model real-life processes.

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