Calculus 2 for Engineers: Riemann sums

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around Riemann sums related to the integral ∫x³dx from 0 to 1, specifically focusing on writing the sum and demonstrating convergence to 1/4 using a given identity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss their attempts to formulate the Riemann sum and explore various strategies for part b, including using the right endpoint of intervals and applying a given identity.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a mix of attempts and clarifications, with some participants expressing confusion about the convergence aspect of the problem. Guidance has been offered regarding the use of specific sums and hints provided in earlier posts.

Contextual Notes

Participants note challenges in understanding how to apply the identity and the implications of their previous calculations. There is an acknowledgment of differing interpretations of hints and guidance provided.

Parker Hays
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Homework Statement


a. Write down a Riemann sum for the integral ∫x3dx from 0 to 1.
b. Given the following identity 13+23+33...+N3=(N(N+1)/2)2, show that the Riemann sums for ∫x3dx from 0 to 1 converge to 1/4.

The Attempt at a Solution


I believe I have gotten part a. I got ∑i^3/N^4 from i=0 to N-1. Part b I have attempted to solve from multiple angles for the past hour but none of the ways I've tried have yielded any positive results.
 
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Parker Hays said:

Homework Statement


a. Write down a Riemann sum for the integral ∫x3dx from 0 to 1.
b. Given the following identity 13+23+33...+N3=(N(N+1)/2)2, show that the Riemann sums for ∫x3dx from 0 to 1 converge to 1/4.

The Attempt at a Solution


I believe I have gotten part a. I got ∑i^3/N^4 from i=0 to N-1. Part b I have attempted to solve from multiple angles for the past hour but none of the ways I've tried have yielded any positive results.
Try using the right end point of each interval so you have$$
\sum_{i=1}^n \frac{i^3}{n^3}\cdot \frac 1 n$$
 
LCKurtz said:
Try using the right end point of each interval so you have$$
\sum_{i=1}^n \frac{i^3}{n^3}\cdot \frac 1 n$$
Yes, I got part a correct. However, part b still does not make sense to me. I have tried solving for N^4 and various other strategies but I don't see how I can plug it in or do anything to get that it converges to 1/4.
 
Show me what you have done with the sum I gave you. Have you used the given hint?
 
LCKurtz said:
Show me what you have done with the sum I gave you. Have you used the given hint?
I had already completed part a correctly, and you didn't give me a hint for part b.
 
Parker Hays said:
I had already completed part a correctly, and you didn't give me a hint for part b.
He did. Use the sum in post #2 with the sum you have for b) and calculate the limit.
 
I figured it out. Thanks for the help, sorry I didn't realize you were giving me another idea I just thought you were restating the answer I already had for part a @LCKurtz.
 

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