How do you find out where a series converges

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the convergence of infinite series, specifically focusing on the series \(\sum_{n=1}^\infty (\frac{3}{5})^n\) and the conditions under which it converges. Participants explore the nature of convergence and the explicit values of certain series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the criteria for convergence of series and question the validity of comparing different series. There is an inquiry into how to find the explicit value of the series and whether known results can be applied to the series in question.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of geometric series and questioning previous assertions about convergence. Some guidance has been offered regarding the geometric series formula, but there is no consensus on the explicit value of the series or the correctness of earlier claims.

Contextual Notes

There are mentions of incorrect proofs and assumptions regarding convergence, as well as confusion about the nature of certain series being discussed. Participants are navigating these complexities without reaching a definitive conclusion.

stunner5000pt
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are there certain formulae to find out where a certain infinite series converges, if it does converge

for example
[tex]\sum_{n=1}^\infty (\frac{3}{5})^n[/tex] certainly converges because it is between the infinite series
[tex]\sum (1+ \frac{1}{n})^n[/tex] and the series [tex]\sum (\frac{1}{5})^n[/tex] which both converge Since both of them converge then sum(3/5)^n must converge.

But my question is WHERE does (3/5)^n converge??
 
Last edited:
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[itex]\sum_{n=1}^\infty (3/5)^n[/itex] doesn't have any parameters, so it doesn't really make sense to ask for which values of the parameters (i.e. where) the series converges... only if.


Now, (1 + 1/n)^n and (1/5)^n aren't series...
 
Last edited:
what i meant was how do you find the explicit value of the series
for example i know (because I've been told) that
[tex]\sum \frac{1}{n^2} = \frac{\pi^2}{6}[/tex]
would it be possible to that to do this series??

note: my proof of its convergence is wrong
 
[itex]\sum_{n = 1}^{\infty} (1 + 1/n)^n[/itex] doesn't converge...

Anyways, yes, your series does have a sum. It's a geometric series, so use the formula for such series.
 
stunner5000pt said:
what i meant was how do you find the explicit value of the series
for example i know (because I've been told) that
[tex]\sum \frac{1}{n^2} = \frac{\pi^2}{6}[/tex]
would it be possible to that to do this series??

note: my proof of its convergence is wrong

Here's the thread that addressed the problem:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?p=470773#post470773
 

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