A question about property of liminf and limsup

  • Thread starter zzzhhh
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Property
In summary, if x_n is nonnegative and y_n is nonnegative with a convergent limit as n approaches infinity, then the limit of the supremum of their product is equal to the product of their individual limits. However, if x_n is negative, then the limit of the supremum of their product is equal to the product of the limit of x_n and the limit of the infimum of y_n. To achieve this result, one can use the sign trick and apply the result \liminf (-a_j)=-\limsup(a_j) to the case where x_n is negative. This result can be found in formal sources such as textbooks or webpages. To prove this result, one must carefully consider where the assumption
  • #1
zzzhhh
40
1
If [tex]x_n\geq 0, y_n\geq 0[/tex] and [tex]\lim \limits_{n \to \infty }x_n[/tex] exists, we have [tex]\limsup\limits_{n\to\infty}(x_n\cdot y_n)=(\lim\limits_{n\to\infty}x_n)\cdot(\limsup\limits_{n\to\infty}y_n)[/tex]. But if [tex]\lim\limits_{n\to\infty}x_n<0[/tex], do we have analog equation(I guess [tex]\limsup\limits_{n\to\infty}(x_n\cdot y_n)=(\lim\limits_{n\to\infty}x_n)\cdot(\liminf\limits_{n\to\infty }y_n)[/tex])? and what change should be made to conditions to achieve the analog equation? Formal source of reference such as textbooks or webpages is recommended. Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you know how to prove the first result? Make a proof, take a careful look to see where you used the assumption that x_n is positive, and then it should be clear how things become changed when you assume x_n is negative.
 
  • #3
As always with liminf and limsup, use the sign trick!
[tex]\liminf (-a_j)=-\limsup(a_j).[/tex]
If x_n<0, then -x_n>0, so we can apply your result (in the form [itex]\liminf(a_jb_j)=\lim(a_j)\liminf(b_j)[/itex] for a_j,b_j nonnegative and a_j convregent, i.e. sup replaced by inf) to get:

[tex]\limsup (x_ny_n)=-\liminf (-x_ny_n)=-\lim(-x_n)\liminf(y_n)=\lim(x_n)\liminf(y_n)[/tex]
 
  • #4
Thank you Landau, it's really a good idea!
 

Related to A question about property of liminf and limsup

1. What is the definition of liminf and limsup?

The limit inferior (liminf) and limit superior (limsup) of a sequence are the smallest and largest accumulation points of the sequence, respectively. They can also be thought of as the infimum and supremum of the set of all subsequential limits of the sequence.

2. How do liminf and limsup differ from the regular limit of a sequence?

The regular limit of a sequence is the value that the terms of the sequence approach as the index goes to infinity. The liminf and limsup, on the other hand, describe the behavior of the sequence as a whole and take into account all possible subsequences.

3. Can liminf and limsup be equal to each other?

Yes, it is possible for liminf and limsup to be equal. This occurs when the sequence is convergent, meaning that the regular limit exists, and all subsequences converge to the same limit.

4. How can liminf and limsup be used to determine the convergence of a sequence?

If the liminf and limsup are equal, then the sequence is convergent. If the liminf and limsup are not equal, then the sequence is divergent. The liminf and limsup can also be used to determine the behavior of the sequence, such as whether it is oscillating or approaching infinity.

5. Are there any properties or rules for liminf and limsup?

Yes, there are several properties and rules for liminf and limsup, including the subsequence property, comparison property, and algebraic properties. These properties can be useful in evaluating limits and proving theorems involving sequences.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
894
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Calculus
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
294
Replies
18
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Calculus
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Math Proof Training and Practice
Replies
5
Views
901
Replies
2
Views
403
Back
Top