Bounding Argument for Comparison Test

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the series $$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi x)$$ for $$0 \leq x \leq 1$$, with a focus on using the Comparison Test to establish convergence. Participants explore the implications of the sine function's behavior and the conditions under which the series converges.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using the Comparison Test and attempts to establish bounds for the series based on the sine function's values.
  • Another participant points out that the terms of the series are not always positive, suggesting that the initial proof is incorrect and that absolute convergence should be considered instead.
  • A third participant provides a basis for proof, stating that $$0 \leq \frac{|\sin(n\pi x)|}{n^3} \leq \frac{1}{n^3}$$ as a potential approach to show absolute convergence.
  • A later reply acknowledges the suggestion of absolute convergence and expresses intent to pursue this direction after realizing the limitations of the initial approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the initial approach to proving convergence, as participants highlight flaws in the reasoning. Multiple competing views exist regarding the method to establish convergence, particularly the shift towards absolute convergence.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reveals limitations in the initial argument, particularly regarding the behavior of the sine function and the positivity of the series terms. The transition to considering absolute convergence introduces additional complexity that remains unresolved.

Sai-
Messages
8
Reaction score
0
I have the sum,
$$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi x) \text{, where }0 \leq x \leq 1$$
I have to show that the series converges, so I'm going to use the Comparison Test.
$$ \text{If }0 \leq a_n \leq b_n \text{ then}$$$$\text{If }\sum b_n \text{ converges then }\sum a_n \text{ must converges.}$$
Applying the Comparison Test, I know I must show that,
$$0 \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi x) \leq \frac{1}{n^3} \text{, where }0 \leq x \leq 1$$
(This is hard part), Since we know that x is between 0 and 1, I think we can bound it.
$$0 \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi (0)) \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi (1)) \leq \frac{1}{n^3}$$
Since 0 times anything is 0, and 1 times anything is 1, we get
$$ 0 \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(0) \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi ) \leq \frac{1}{n^3}$$
Since sine of 0 is 0, we get
$$ 0 \leq 0 \leq \frac{1}{n^{3}}\sin(n \pi ) \leq \frac{1}{n^3}$$
And since sine of n times pi alternates between sine of 1 pi and 2pi, sine equals 0.
$$ 0 \leq 0 \leq 0 \leq \frac{1}{n^3}$$
And since this holds true, and we know that 1 divided by n cubed converges due to the p-series, the sum must therefore converge.

I feel like this isn't correct, because if x = 1/2 and n = 3, we get sine of 3pi/2, which equals -1 and then this falls apart. If possible can someone nudge me in the right direction? Much thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Indeed the term you are summing are not always positive, so your proof is incorrect (your argument about ## \sin(n\pi x) ## is not justified, sine is not an increasing function)

Instead, try to show that your series is absolutely convergent.
 
Basis of proof:
0\le \frac{|sinx|}{n^3} \le \frac{1}{n^3}
 
wabbit said:
Indeed the term you are summing are not always positive, so your proof is incorrect (your argument about ## \sin(n\pi x) ## is not justified, sine is not an increasing function)

Instead, try to show that your series is absolutely convergent.

I didn't even think about about absolute convergence, since ratio and root test failed. I think I can take it from here, I just got to show that it is absolutely convergent using the comparison test and then that will be it. Much Thanks!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K