Testing for series convergence.

In summary, the series \sum(\frac{2n}{2n+1})n2 does not converge as the limit of the nth term does not equal zero.
  • #1
uber_kim
8
0

Homework Statement



[itex]\sum[/itex]([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2

(The sum being from n=1 to ∞).


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Used exponent properties to get ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])2n. Using the root test, the nth root of an = lim n->∞([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])2 = 1. However, the root test is indeterminate if the limit = 1.

The ratio test didn't work out, and it doesn't seem to be similar to any series, such as geometric, tunnel, etc.

The integral test seems like it would be very complicated, but if someone thinks it's the right way to go, I'll give it a shot.

Would it work to say that ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2 < ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex]), so if ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex]) converges, then ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2 also does by squeeze convergence? Would that also work if it diverges?

Any help would be great, thanks!
 
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  • #2
uber_kim said:

Homework Statement



[itex]\sum[/itex]([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2

(The sum being from n=1 to ∞).

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Used exponent properties to get ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])2n. Using the root test, the nth root of an = lim n->∞([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])2 = 1. However, the root test is indeterminate if the limit = 1.

The ratio test didn't work out, and it doesn't seem to be similar to any series, such as geometric, tunnel, etc.

The integral test seems like it would be very complicated, but if someone thinks it's the right way to go, I'll give it a shot.

Would it work to say that ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2 < ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex]), so if ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex]) converges, then ([itex]\frac{2n}{2n+1}[/itex])n2 also does by squeeze convergence? Would that also work if it diverges?

Any help would be great, thanks!

Try a really simple test, the nth term test. If the limit of the nth term of your series as n->infinity is not zero, then the sum of the series can't exist.
 
Last edited:

Related to Testing for series convergence.

1. What is the purpose of testing for series convergence?

The purpose of testing for series convergence is to determine whether a given infinite series will have a finite sum or will diverge to infinity. This is important in many areas of mathematics and science, as it helps us understand the behavior of these series and make accurate predictions.

2. What are some common tests for series convergence?

Some common tests for series convergence include the ratio test, the root test, the integral test, and the comparison test. These tests use various methods to determine if a series is convergent or divergent.

3. How do you perform the ratio test?

The ratio test involves taking the limit of the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms in the series. If the limit is less than 1, the series is convergent. If it is greater than 1, the series is divergent. If the limit is exactly 1, the test is inconclusive and another test must be used.

4. Can a series have both convergent and divergent terms?

Yes, a series can have both convergent and divergent terms. In this case, the overall convergence or divergence of the series will depend on the behavior of the terms as n approaches infinity. If the divergent terms grow at a faster rate than the convergent terms, the series will be divergent.

5. Are there any special cases in series convergence testing?

Yes, there are some special cases in series convergence testing. For example, the alternating series test can be used for alternating series with decreasing terms. Also, the geometric series test is a special case of the ratio test and is used for series with a constant ratio between terms.

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