Finding Radius of Interval Convergence: \sum x^n/2^n

In summary, the problem is asking for the radius of convergence for the power series \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{x^n}{2^n}. The hint provided suggests using the ratio test to find the radius of convergence, which involves taking the limit of the ratio of successive terms. However, the root test may also be a simpler option.
  • #1
Lance WIlliam
47
0

Homework Statement



Finding the Radius of interval convergence of [tex]\sum[/tex] n=1(theres a infinity on the sigma), "x^n/2^n"

I really don't have a clue on which way I should go.
Just a hint would be great:)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Hint: ratio test.
 
  • #3
You almost always use the ratio test to find the radius of convergence of a power series. For this particular problem you may find that the root test is simpler. But for most power series the ratio test is simplest.

Ratio test: The series [itex]\sum a_n[/itex] converges absolutely if
[tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n}< 1[/itex]
It diverges if that limit is larger than one and may converge absolutely, converge conditionally, or diverge if the limit is equal to 1.

Root test: The series [itex]\sum a_n[/itex] converges absolutely if
[tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}\left( ^n\sqrt{a_n}\right)< 1[/itex]
It diverges if that limit is larger than one and may converge absolutely, converge conditionally, or diverge if the limit is equal to 1.
 
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Related to Finding Radius of Interval Convergence: \sum x^n/2^n

What is the formula for finding the radius of convergence for a series?

The formula for finding the radius of convergence for a series is R = 1/L, where L is the limit of the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms in the series.

What does the radius of convergence represent?

The radius of convergence represents the distance from the center of the series, within which the series will converge. Any values outside of this radius will cause the series to diverge.

How do you determine the interval of convergence for a series?

To determine the interval of convergence, you must first find the radius of convergence. Then, you can check the endpoints of the interval by plugging them into the original series. If the series converges at the endpoints, then the interval of convergence is inclusive of those endpoints. If the series diverges at the endpoints, then the interval of convergence is exclusive of those endpoints.

What is the significance of the exponent in the formula for finding the radius of convergence?

The exponent in the formula for finding the radius of convergence, n, represents the degree of the terms in the series. This allows us to determine the convergence or divergence of the series based on the behavior of the terms.

What happens if the limit of the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms is equal to zero?

If the limit of the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms is equal to zero, then the radius of convergence is infinite, and the series will converge for all values of x. This is known as a power series.

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