Construction of a Cauchy sequence

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on constructing a Cauchy sequence ${r}_{n}$ consisting of rational numbers that converges to an irrational limit. Participants suggest using the first $n$ decimal digits of an irrational number, such as the mathematical constant $e$, defined by the limit $\displaystyle e = \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} (1 + \frac{1}{n})^{n}$. Another proposed method involves calculating the area of a regular $n$-gon inscribed in a unit circle, which converges to $\pi$ as $n$ approaches infinity. Both methods effectively demonstrate the construction of the desired Cauchy sequence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Cauchy sequences and their properties
  • Familiarity with irrational numbers and their decimal expansions
  • Knowledge of limits and convergence in sequences
  • Basic concepts of geometry related to inscribed polygons
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of Cauchy sequences in real analysis
  • Study the mathematical constant $e$ and its derivation
  • Explore the geometric interpretation of limits using inscribed polygons
  • Learn about Dedekind cuts and their application in constructing real numbers
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in real analysis, particularly those studying sequences and limits in the context of rational and irrational numbers.

Paradox 101
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
I need to construct a cauchy sequence ${r}_{n}$ such that its rational for all n belonging to set of natural numbers, but the limit of the sequence is not rational when n tends to infinity. I know that all convergent sequences are cauchy but I can't randomly conjure up a sequence that satisfies this question. Should I construct the sequence by dedekind cuts? If so how do I go about it? My proof writing isn't good so any help would be appreciated thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Welcome to the forum.

As $r_n$ you could take the first $n$ decimal digits of any irrational number.
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
Welcome to the forum.

As $r_n$ you could take the first $n$ decimal digits of any irrational number.

Can you explain this further?
 
How about the sequence 3, 3.1, 3.14, 3.141, 3.1415, 3.14159, ... etc.. all the individual terms are rational, having a finite decimal expansion.. but what does it converge to?
 
Paradox 101 said:
I need to construct a cauchy sequence ${r}_{n}$ such that its rational for all n belonging to set of natural numbers, but the limit of the sequence is not rational when n tends to infinity. I know that all convergent sequences are cauchy but I can't randomly conjure up a sequence that satisfies this question. Should I construct the sequence by dedekind cuts? If so how do I go about it? My proof writing isn't good so any help would be appreciated thanks.

A good example is the definition of the base of natural logarithm...

$\displaystyle e = \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} (1 + \frac{1}{n})^{n}\ (1)$

... in which is $\displaystyle r_{n} = (1 + \frac{1}{n})^{n}$...

Demonstrating that e is irrational [not an impossible task...], You obtail a type of sequence You are searching for...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Another way could be construct it as follows.

Consider $r_{n}$ the area of the regular $n$-gon inscribed into the unit circle.

Then the limit is $\pi$.
 
Fallen Angel said:
Another way could be construct it as follows.

Consider $r_{n}$ the area of the regular $n$-gon inscribed into the unit circle.

Then the limit is $\pi$.

It is required that every $r_{n}$ must be rational ... for a circle of radious r the area of a regular n sides polygon inscribed is...

$\displaystyle A_{n} = \frac{n}{2}\ r^{2}\ \sin \frac{2\ \pi}{n}\ (1)$

If r is rational, then for n=3 is $\displaystyle \sin \frac{2\ \pi}{3} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}$ and $A_{3}$ is irrational... for n=4 is $\displaystyle \sin \frac{\pi}{2} = 1$ and $A_{4}$ is rational...

... regarding other rational sequences for which $\displaystyle \lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} r_{n} = \pi$ it is necessary to consider that a correct definition of an infinite sequence $r_{n}$ consists in defining a procedure that allows for any value of n the computation of $r_{n}$...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K