Example of a Diverging Series & Converging Integral

In summary, the conversation discusses the task of finding a continuous, non-negative function that diverges in series form but converges in improper integral form. The poster has attempted to find such a function but has not been successful. Another user suggests trying a function that is large for integers but vanishes outside of small intervals. However, it is pointed out that this reasoning only applies to decreasing functions. The original poster then states that the question should be removed.
  • #1
helpmepls
2
0

Homework Statement



Give an example of a continuous, non-negative function f: [1, infinity) --> R such that if an = f(n) for each positive integer n, the series [tex]\sum[/tex] an diverges, while the improper integral from 1 to infinity of f converges. Justify your answer.

Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried to randomly pick some functions I thought would work but can't seem to get one to converge and the other to diverge. For instance the series (1/n) will obviously diverge (p-test) but the integral of (1/n) will be the ln(n) which would give me an infinite value when taking the limit as n approaches infinity. Any advice on what type of function would work.
 
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  • #2


I don't think such function exists.

Proof: Assume such function f(n) exists. Since integral from 1 to infinity converges, the integral test tells us that the sum from 1 to infinity also converges. This contradicts the fact we want the sum to diverge. Therefore no such function exists.
 
  • #3


This reasoning applies only to decreasing functions.
Try something which is "large" for integers, but vanishes outside of small intervals around them.
 
  • #4


This is Dr. Block, please remove this question.
 

1. What is an example of a diverging series and a converging integral?

An example of a diverging series is the harmonic series, which is 1 + 1/2 + 1/3 + 1/4 + ... and has no finite sum. An example of a converging integral is ∫ 1/x dx from 1 to infinity, which has the finite value of ln(x).

2. How can you determine if a series is diverging or converging?

A series is diverging if the terms do not approach 0 as the index approaches infinity. A series is converging if the terms approach 0 and the series passes a convergence test, such as the ratio or root test.

3. What are some real-world applications of diverging series and converging integrals?

Diverging series and converging integrals are used in various mathematical and scientific fields, such as physics, engineering, and economics. They can be used to model and analyze natural phenomena, such as heat transfer, population growth, and financial investments.

4. Can a series be both diverging and converging?

No, a series cannot be both diverging and converging. A series can either have a finite sum, and therefore be converging, or have an infinite sum, and therefore be diverging.

5. How are diverging series and converging integrals related?

Diverging series and converging integrals are related through the integral test, which states that if a series has positive terms and its corresponding integral converges, then the series also converges. However, if the integral diverges, then the series also diverges.

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