Proving Infinite Sum of n^2 a^n/n! = a(1+a)e^a

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SUMMARY

The infinite sum of the series \(\sum_n \frac{n^2 a^n}{n!}\) equals \(a(1+a)e^a\). This conclusion is derived by manipulating the series through the relationship \(\frac{n}{n!} = \frac{1}{(n-1)!}\) and recognizing that \(a^n\) can be expressed as \(a a^{n-1}\). Additionally, rewriting \(n\) as \((n-1) + 1\) allows for the separation of the sum into two familiar components. Differentiating both sides of the equation term by term also provides a valid approach to prove this identity.

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Repetit
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Hey!

Can someone tell me or just give a hint on how to show that:

\sum_n \frac{n^2 a^n}{n!}=a(1+a)e^a

when n goes to infinity? I know how to show that:

\sum_n \frac{n a^n}{n!}=a e^a

by using the facts that n/n! = 1/(n-1)! and a^n = a a^(n-1). But how can I prove the other one?

Thanks!
 
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After doing what you did in the second example, you'll be left with something like n a^n/(n-1)!. Rewrite the n in the numerator as (n-1) +1, and you'll get two familiar sums. Another way to do both problems would be to differentiate both sides, the sum term by term and the exponential as usual (using the chain rule in this case).
 
Ahh, of course... thanks a lot! :-)
 

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