Monotonic Sequence Theorem Question

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The discussion centers on the Monotonic Sequence Theorem, specifically regarding a decreasing sequence \(\{ a_n \}\) bounded between 5 and 8. It is established that the sequence has a limit due to its bounded and monotonic nature. However, while the limit is confirmed to be at least 5, it is clarified that the limit is not necessarily equal to 5 unless the infimum of the sequence is 5.

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Suppose you know that [tex]\left{ a_n \right}[/tex] is a decreasing sequence and all its
terms lie between the numbers 5 and 8. Explain why the sequence has a limit. What can
you say about the value of the limit?

My Answer:

This sequence has a limit because it is both bounded and monotonic, as it is stated in the
Monotonic Sequence Theorem. The minimum value of this particular limit must be 5.

My question:

Is that thoroughly answered? Did I miss anything?
 
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thiago_j said:
Suppose you know that [tex]\left{ a_n \right}[/tex] is a decreasing sequence and all its
terms lie between the numbers 5 and 8. Explain why the sequence has a limit. What can
you say about the value of the limit?

My Answer:

This sequence has a limit because it is both bounded and monotonic, as it is stated in the
Monotonic Sequence Theorem. The minimum value of this particular limit must be 5.

My question:

Is that thoroughly answered? Did I miss anything?

Well, you can say that the limit is greater than or equal to five. As you know, a certain theorem says that any bounded, monotonic sequence has a limit. But if the problem is stated as you have written it, I don't think you can say that the limit must be 5.

All of the terms lie between 5 and 8. But do you know if the infimum of the sequence is 5? If the infimum is 5, then yes, the limit is also 5. But if 5 is simply a lower bound (and not necessarily the infimum), then you can't say that the limit is 5.
 
I think get it. The limit is not necessarily 5.

Thanks.
 

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