Calculate Sigma Sums in Excel for Large n

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating sigma sums in Excel for large values of "n", specifically using the formula \(\Sigma^{40}_{k=1} \sqrt\frac{3k-3}{4}\). Excel 2003 has a limitation of approximately 64,000 rows per column, while Excel 2007 and 2010 can handle around 1,000,000 rows. Users familiar with the =SUM() function can efficiently compute partial sums by organizing data across multiple columns or sheets if necessary.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with Excel functions, particularly =SUM()
  • Understanding of sigma notation and its mathematical implications
  • Knowledge of Excel row limitations in versions 2003, 2007, and 2010
  • Basic skills in organizing data across multiple columns or sheets
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to implement complex formulas in Excel, including array formulas
  • Learn about Excel's data organization techniques for handling large datasets
  • Explore Excel 2013 and later features for improved data handling
  • Investigate alternatives to Excel for large-scale mathematical computations, such as Python with NumPy
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for data analysts, mathematicians, and Excel users who need to perform calculations involving large datasets and sigma notation.

alane1994
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Is anyone familiar enough with excel to use it to find the sum in of sigma notation when "n" is large?

\Sigma^{40}_{k=1} \sqrt\frac{3k-3}{4}

Something like this?
 
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Is it a matter of familiarity or a matter of just doing it?

Excel 2003 limited one to ~64,000 "n" in any single column. You could get past it by using multiple columns or sheets.

Excel 2007 and 2010 are more in the ~1,000,000 range.

If you know how to anchor a =sum(), you should be able to produce the sequence of partial sums quite easily.

Still, I don't know how large you are talking.
 

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