Understanding the nth Term Test for Divergence in Series

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The nth Term Test for Divergence is a fundamental tool in determining the divergence of series. If the limit of the general term of a series does not equal zero, the series is definitively divergent. However, it is crucial to understand that this test does not apply universally; there are series that diverge but still pass the nth term test. Examples illustrating these exceptions are essential for a comprehensive understanding of the test's limitations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series and sequences in calculus
  • Familiarity with limits and their properties
  • Basic knowledge of convergence and divergence criteria
  • Experience with mathematical proofs and examples
NEXT STEPS
  • Study examples of series that diverge but pass the nth Term Test
  • Learn about other convergence tests such as the Ratio Test and Root Test
  • Explore the concept of conditional convergence in series
  • Review the definitions and properties of convergent and divergent series
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, educators teaching series convergence, and mathematicians analyzing series behavior will benefit from this discussion.

kamranonline
Messages
10
Reaction score
0
I have a problem understanding the divergence of series.. There is a n-th term test that u first apply on the general term of the series and if its limit is not equal 0 then the series is divergent.. When i apply that test sometime i get it wrong and sometime not.. When can i apply this test? is there any special conditions for it? or it should always work.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Please show us examples of what you mean by getting it wrong. The nth term test can tell you if a series diverges, but not all series that diverge fail the nth term test.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
29
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K