For which values of a does this series converge?

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In summary, the series \sum (n!)^2/(an)! converges for all values of a greater than a certain number, as shown by using Stirling's formula. The limit of the series from n to infinity must be equal to 0 for it to converge. A cannot be a negative integer because of the definition of factorial. However, when a is 0, the limit is still infinity.
  • #1
ziggie125
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Homework Statement



For which values of a does this series converge?

[tex]\sum[/tex] (n!)^2/(an)!


The Attempt at a Solution



I know a cannot be a negative integer because you cannot have a negative factorial.

If a is 0, then it's limit is infinity. ie. lim (n!)^2/ 0 = infinity

If a is +1, then lim cn+1/cn = ((n+1)!)^2/(n+1)! x n!/(n!)^2

= lim (n+1)^2/(n+1) = lim (n+1)/1 = infinity


For the series to converge it's limit from n to infinity must be equal to 0 right? So is there any value of a where it converges, or is my math wrong?
 
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  • #2
ziggie125 said:
[/PHP]

Homework Statement



For which values of a does this series converge?

[tex]\sum[/tex] (n!)^2/(an)!


The Attempt at a Solution



I know a cannot be a negative integer because you cannot have a negative factorial.

If a is 0, then it's limit is infinity. ie. lim (n!)^2/ 0 = infinity

If a is +1, then lim cn+1/cn = ((n+1)!)^2/(n+1)! x n!/(n!)^2

= lim (n+1)^2/(n+1) = lim (n+1)/1 = infinity


For the series to converge it's limit from n to infinity must be equal to 0 right? So is there any value of a where it converges, or is my math wrong?

If a = 0, 0! = 1
 
  • #3
thx. The limit is still infinity though.
 
  • #4
Try using Stirling's formula. I think you'll see then that the series does converge as long as a is greater than some number.
 

1. What is the definition of convergence in a series?

The convergence of a series refers to whether the sum of all terms in the series approaches a finite value as the number of terms increases indefinitely.

2. How do you determine if a series converges or diverges?

There are several methods for determining convergence or divergence in a series, including the ratio test, the root test, and the comparison test. These tests involve analyzing the behavior of the terms in the series as the number of terms increases.

3. What is the significance of the values of a in determining convergence?

The values of a in a series can affect whether the series converges or diverges. In some cases, a specific value of a may result in convergence, while in other cases it may result in divergence. It is important to evaluate the values of a when determining convergence in a series.

4. What are some common values of a that result in convergence in a series?

Common values of a that result in convergence in a series include positive numbers, fractions, and values that decrease as the number of terms increases. Additionally, series with alternating signs and series with terms that decrease at a constant rate may also converge.

5. Can a series converge for some values of a and diverge for others?

Yes, a series can converge for certain values of a and diverge for others. This is because different values of a can result in different behaviors of the terms in the series, ultimately affecting whether the series converges or diverges. It is important to analyze the behavior of the terms for each specific value of a when determining convergence in a series.

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