Closed Form Solution for Series with Exponential and Power Terms?

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The discussion centers on finding a closed form solution for the series \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}(-1)^{n}\frac{e^{-(nx)^2}}{n^{1-m}}\), where m is an integer and 0<x<∞. Participants express skepticism about the feasibility of simplifying the series using theta functions or other special functions, particularly for values of x less than 1, where convergence may be problematic. There is an emphasis on the potential utility of a closed form representation for analysis or computational purposes. Suggestions include exploring the Taylor series expansion of the exponential term and considering the constraints on m. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges and considerations in seeking a more manageable representation of the series.
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\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}(-1)^{n}\frac{e^{-(nx)^2}}{n^{1-m}}

Where m is an integer and 0<x<oo. I need a closed form solution, and was thinking something along the lines of a theta-type function, but cannot seem to locate any identities that match. Anyone have a suggestion?
 
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rman144,

I'm curious what you consider "closed form" and what you will use it for (analysis, numerics, etc.). Clearly, for x>1 this is an excellent representation that converges quickly - I would be surprised if a theta function (or hypergeometric or a G-function or ...) would be any "simpler" in reality or easier to compute, although on paper you may be able to write a small number of special functions, at best. Of course for x<1 the series may leave something to be desired, as I am pretty sure it can have a large number of terms with increasing magnitude before the terms start to decrease.

Just curious.

Jason
 
rman144,

I just re-read my post - it sounds like I am questioning the utility of finding another representation of the series. I didn't mean it that way - honest! I'm guessing most of us have been in a similar situation of looking for a nicer representation that may yield more insight, allow us to use well documented properties of known functions, allow us to use code we already have to compute it, etc. Anyway, I really am curious about the source of the series. Also, are there any other constraints on m beyond being an integer (even/odd, positive/negative)?

Regards,

Jason
 
Perhaps replace the exponential by its Taylor series, switch the double sums? It's something to try.
 
Lol, I took no offense. Thank you for the help.
 

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