Can't solve a sequence (to determine if a given value is a member)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around determining whether the fraction 41/81 is a member of the sequence defined by the formula a_n = (n^2 + 1) / (2n^2). The user successfully derives the equation 81(n^2 + 1) = 82n^2, leading to the conclusion that n = 9, thus confirming that 41/81 is indeed the 9th element of the sequence. Furthermore, the conversation explores the monotonicity of the sequence and its behavior as n approaches infinity, establishing that the sequence converges to 1/2.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of sequences and series
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation and cross-multiplication
  • Basic knowledge of limits and convergence in calculus
  • Ability to work with fractions and properties of arithmetic sequences
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of arithmetic and geometric sequences
  • Learn about convergence and limits in sequences
  • Explore mathematical induction techniques
  • Research graphical representation of sequences in coordinate systems
USEFUL FOR

Students in algebra and discrete mathematics, particularly those studying sequences and series, as well as educators looking for examples of sequence behavior and convergence.

  • #31
MarkFL said:
I would think the argument I gave in my post previous to this would suffice then.

I agree...

But,now i have new problem,about Mathematical induction,should i open new Thread?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
andreask said:
I agree...

But,now i have new problem,about Mathematical induction,should i open new Thread?

Yes, and I would post it in our Discrete Mathematics sub-forum.
 
  • #33
MarkFL said:
Yes, and I would post it in our Discrete Mathematics sub-forum.

I will...

Maybe you can take a look...if you want...
 
  • #34
I still have one question...What kind of type this sequence is? Arithmetic or geometric? I can't figure it out...
 
  • #35
andreask said:
I still have one question...What kind of type this sequence is? Arithmetic or geometric? I can't figure it out...

An arithmetic sequence has the property:

$$a_{n+1}-a_{n}=d$$

While a geometric sequence would have the property:

$$\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_{n}}=r$$

Note: Both $d$ and $r$ are constants that do not depend on $n$. Does this sequence satisfy either property?
 
  • #36
MarkFL said:
An arithmetic sequence has the property:

$$a_{n+1}-a_{n}=d$$

While a geometric sequence would have the property:

$$\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_{n}}=r$$

Note: Both $d$ and $r$ are constants that do not depend on $n$. Does this sequence satisfy either property?

It seems its arthmetic
 
  • #37
andreask said:
It seems its arthmetic

I find:

$$a_{n+1}-a_{n}=\frac{(n+1)^2+1}{2(n+1)^2}-\frac{n^2+1}{2n^2}=-\frac{2n+1}{2n^2(n+1)^2}$$

Thus, the difference between two succeeding terms is a function of $n$, and so the sequence is not arithmetic.
 
  • #38
MarkFL said:
I find:

$$a_{n+1}-a_{n}=\frac{(n+1)^2+1}{2(n+1)^2}-\frac{n^2+1}{2n^2}=-\frac{2n+1}{2n^2(n+1)^2}$$

Thus, the difference between two succeeding terms is a function of $n$, and so the sequence is not arithmetic.

Ad its not geometric?
 
  • #39
andreask said:
And its not geometric?

What do you find when you compute the ratio I gave above?
 
  • #40
MarkFL said:
What do you find when you compute the ratio I gave above?

Will try tomorrow,im litlle busy now
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K