Analysis Question: Proving Algebraic operations for infinite limits

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving a limit involving sequences, specifically addressing the limit of the sum of two sequences where one converges to zero and the other is bounded below. The problem is situated within the context of limits in real analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of the definitions of bounded and unbounded sequences, questioning the validity of the original statement. There is a suggestion to consider the conditions under which a sequence is unbounded from above.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning the correctness of the original problem statement and exploring alternative interpretations. Some guidance is offered regarding the implications of the definitions involved, and a proof by contradiction is suggested as a potential approach.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the exact wording of the problem as presented in the textbook, with participants noting potential ambiguities in the terms "bounded below" and "unbounded from above." This raises questions about the assumptions that may need to be clarified for the proof.

The_Iceflash
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Homework Statement



Given [tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}a_{n}}= 0[/tex]
[tex]b_{n}[/tex] is bounded below.

Prove: [tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}(a_{n}+b_{n})}= \infty[/tex]

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



According to my text: [tex]{b_{n}}[/tex] is bounded below if and only if there is a real number [tex]\ni[/tex] B [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]b_{n}\forall_{n}[/tex]

So, here's my attempt:

Putting the givens together I get:

B [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]b_{n}[/tex] [tex]\leq[/tex] 0

At this point forward I'm not sure where to go with this. Any kind of help is appreciated.
 
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You can't prove it as it is written, as its not true. For example, the sequences [itex]a_n = 0[/itex] and [itex]b_n = 1[/itex] satisfy the given conditions, yet the limit of their sum is 1, not divergent to infinity.

Are you sure that's exactly how the question is given? Perhaps they were sloppy and by their statement "Bounded from below" they also implied "Unbounded from above".

In the likelyhood the question is the case, Use that fact. What does it mean for a sequence to be unbounded from above?
 
Gib Z said:
You can't prove it as it is written, as its not true. For example, the sequences [itex]a_n = 0[/itex] and [itex]b_n = 1[/itex] satisfy the given conditions, yet the limit of their sum is 1, not divergent to infinity.

Are you sure that's exactly how the question is given? Perhaps they were sloppy and by their statement "Bounded from below" they also implied "Unbounded from above".

In the likelyhood the question is the case, Use that fact. What does it mean for a sequence to be unbounded from above?

That's exactly how the given was quoted in my textbook. That's why I was confused as well.

If a sequence is unbounded from above then it goes to infinity.
 
Well yes but in algebraic term. You wrote "According to my text: [tex]{b_{n}}[/tex] is bounded below if and only if there is a real number [tex]\ni[/tex] B [tex]\leq[/tex] [tex]b_{n}\forall_{n}[/tex]".

Write the corresponding statement for if a sequence is unbounded from above. There will be information in there that you can use.

Next thing to do would be a proof by contradicition, assume the [itex]\lim_{n\to \infty} a_n +b_n[/itex] does exist and is equal to some number L. By the epsilon delta definition of a limit would does it mean for the limit to be equal to L? Can you contradict that using any information you have
 

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