Construction of a Cauchy sequence

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the construction of a Cauchy sequence where each term is rational, yet the limit of the sequence is irrational. Participants explore various methods and examples to achieve this, including sequences derived from irrational numbers and geometric constructions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests constructing the sequence using Dedekind cuts but seeks guidance on the approach.
  • Another participant proposes taking the first $n$ decimal digits of any irrational number as the sequence ${r}_{n}$.
  • A different example is provided with the sequence 3, 3.1, 3.14, etc., questioning what it converges to.
  • One participant mentions the sequence defined by the limit of $(1 + \frac{1}{n})^{n}$, which converges to the irrational number $e$.
  • Another approach involves considering the area of a regular $n$-gon inscribed in a unit circle, noting that the limit approaches $\pi$.
  • Further elaboration on the area of the polygon is provided, discussing rationality based on the radius and specific values of $n$.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views and methods for constructing the desired Cauchy sequence, with no consensus on a single approach. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best method to achieve the goal.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the convergence of specific sequences and the rationality of terms based on geometric constructions. The discussion includes various assumptions about the definitions and properties of the sequences proposed.

Paradox 101
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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.
 
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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

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 

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