Proof of the Ratio Test and the Triangle Inequality

In summary, to prove that the sum from 1 to infinity of ak diverges, it is necessary to show that the limit of the absolute value of ak+1 over ak is greater than 1. This can be done by choosing a value r greater than 1 and using the comparison test to show that the series of abs(an) multiplied by r^k diverges. This implies that the series of abs(an+k) also diverges, and therefore the sum from 1 to infinity of ak diverges.
  • #1
Fiz2007
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Homework Statement



Prove: If the limit inf as k goes to infinity of abs(ak+1 / ak) > 1 then the sum from 1 to infinity of ak diverges


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So far I have this:

Suppose lim inf abs(ak+1/ak) >1
then, there exists an r such that lim inf abs(ak+1/ak) > r > 1
then [tex]\exists[/tex] N an element of the natural numbers such that k >= N implies
abs(ak+1/ak) > r
that is, for k >= N, abs(ak+1) > abs(ak) r
and, abs (an+1) > r abs(an)
abs (an+2) > r abs (an+1) > r^2 abs(an)
and in general, abs (an+k) > r^k abs(an)

the series the sum from 1 to infinity of abs(an) * r^k diverges to infinity (geometric series with r>1).

Therefore the sum from 1 to infinity of abs(an+k) diverges to infinity by the comparison test.

And then I'm stuck... I'm not sure how to go from the absolute value diverging to the series diverging. It clearly does not converge absolutely but what about conditional convergence? Please help!

Thanks
 
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  • #2
A necessary condition for convergence of a series is a_n approaches to 0 at infinity.
 
  • #3
Thanks! that made it much simpler.
 

What is the proof of the Ratio Test?

The Ratio Test is a method for determining the convergence or divergence of an infinite series. It states that if the limit of the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms in a series is less than 1, then the series converges absolutely. The proof involves using the definition of a limit and properties of inequalities.

How does the Triangle Inequality relate to convergence?

The Triangle Inequality is a mathematical principle that states the sum of any two sides of a triangle must be greater than the third side. This principle is used in the proof of the Ratio Test to show that if the absolute value of the ratio of two consecutive terms is less than 1, then the series must converge.

Can the Ratio Test be used to determine the convergence of all infinite series?

No, the Ratio Test can only be used to determine the convergence or divergence of a series whose terms involve a ratio. It cannot be applied to series with alternating signs or with terms that do not involve a ratio.

How can the Ratio Test be used to improve approximation for convergent series?

The Ratio Test can be used to determine the rate of convergence for a convergent series. This information can then be used to improve the approximation of the series by using more terms in the series. The closer the ratio is to 1, the slower the convergence and the more terms needed for accurate approximation.

Are there any limitations to the Triangle Inequality?

Yes, the Triangle Inequality is limited to the properties of triangles and cannot be applied to all mathematical situations. It is a specific tool used in the proof of the Ratio Test and should not be applied to other convergence tests or proofs without proper justification.

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