Checking the convergence of this numerical series using the ratio test

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The discussion focuses on applying the ratio test to the series ∑(2n)!/(n!)^2 to determine convergence. Participants analyze the limit of the ratio of consecutive terms, emphasizing the importance of using absolute values in the ratio test, although all terms are positive in this case. Simplification of factorial expressions is a key point, with suggestions on using fundamental properties of factorials to reduce complexity. The conversation highlights the need for careful application of these properties to achieve a clearer result. Ultimately, the participants arrive at a simplified expression, demonstrating effective collaboration in solving the problem.
DottZakapa
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Homework Statement
using ratio test verify if converges
Relevant Equations
convergence tests
## \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac {(2n)!}{(n!)^2} ##

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} {\frac {a_{n+1}} {a_n}}##

that becomes

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} {\frac { \frac {(2(n+1))!}{((n+1)!)^2}} { \frac {(2n)!}{(n!)^2}}}##

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} \frac {(2(n+1))!(n!)^2}{((n+1)!)^2(2n)!}##

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} \frac {(2n+2))!(n!)(n!)}{(n+1)!(n+1)!(2n)!}##

then i don't know what else i can do
 
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First of all, what does the ratio test say?
 
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Gaussian97 said:
First of all, what does the ratio test say?
##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} {\frac {a_{n+1}} {a_n}}##

that becomes

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} {\frac { \frac {(2(n+1))!}{((n+1)!)^2}} { \frac {(2n)!}{(n!)^2}}}##

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} \frac {(2(n+1))!(n!)^2}{((n+1)!)^2(2n)!}##

##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} \frac {(2n+2))!(n!)(n!)}{(n+1)n!(n+1)n!(2n)!}##
 
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Actually the ratio test uses the absolute values, in this case, all terms are positive so doesn't matter but is important to know exactly do the theorems say.

Ok, now using the properties of factorials, do you see any way to simplify this expression?
 
Gaussian97 said:
Ok, now using the properties of factorials, do you see any way to simplify this expression?
that is the point, I've already applied all the factorial properties that are in my knowledge. if there are others could you please tell me them? I would really appreciate it :) .
i have always problems with factorials.
thanks
 
Well, actually you only need the most fundamental property:
$$n! = n \cdot (n-1)!$$
 
Gaussian97 said:
Well, actually you only need the most fundamental property:
$$n! = n \cdot (n-1)!$$
like this?
##\lim_{n \rightarrow +\infty} \frac {(2n+2)!}{(n+1)(n+1)2n(n-1)!}##
 
Well, a little bit better. Be careful because ##(2n)!\neq 2n\cdot(n-1)!##, and you can still use this property to further simplify you answer (you can actually get rid of all the factorial terms using this property)
 
Gaussian97 said:
Well, a little bit better. Be careful because ##(2n)!\neq 2n\cdot(n-1)!##, and you can still use this property to further simplify you answer (you can actually get rid of all the factorial terms using this property)
##2n(2n-2)! ?##
 
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DottZakapa said:
##2n(2n-2)! ?##
No, use better the property in the form $$x! = x\cdot(x-1)!,$$ if you substitute ##x=2n## what do you obtain?
 
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Gaussian97 said:
No, use better the property in the form $$x! = x\cdot(x-1)!,$$ if you substitute ##x=2n## what do you obtain?
Very good! you've been super good, did not consider it.
thanks a lot.
Now it simplified as it should
 

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