Convergence and Divergence with Series

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SUMMARY

The series $$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{n - 1}{3n - 1}$$ diverges due to the divergence test, as the limit of the terms approaches $$\frac{1}{3}$$, which is not equal to zero. Conversely, the series $$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{1 + 2^n}{3^n}$$ converges to $$\frac{5}{2}$$, as it can be split into two summations, both of which yield a ratio less than one. The key takeaway is the application of the divergence test for determining convergence or divergence of series.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series convergence tests, specifically the divergence test.
  • Familiarity with limits and their implications in series analysis.
  • Knowledge of geometric series and their convergence criteria.
  • Basic algebraic manipulation of series expressions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Divergence Test in detail to understand its application in series analysis.
  • Learn about the Ratio Test and its effectiveness in determining series convergence.
  • Explore geometric series and their convergence properties for further insights.
  • Investigate the concept of limits in sequences and series to solidify understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone studying series convergence and divergence, particularly in calculus or advanced mathematics courses.

shamieh
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Determine whether the series is convergent or divergent.

$$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{n - 1}{3n - 1}$$

I ended up with $$\frac{1}{3} * 1 = \frac{1}{3}$$ , which is 0.333 ... so wouldn't that mean that $$r < 1$$? Also wouldn't that mean that it is convergent since $$r < 1$$ ?

I don't understand why this is actually divergent?Also,

Determine whether the series is convergent or divergent.

$$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{1 + 2^n}{3^n}$$

I split this up into two summations

Ended up with $$\frac{5}{2}$$ and r < 1, so this converges at $$\frac{1}{3}$$ while approaching infinity right?
 
Last edited:
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Re: Convergene and Divergence with Series

For $$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{n - 1}{3n - 1}$$,

[math]\lim a_n=\frac{1}{3}\neq 0[/math]

So, the series diverges by the divergence test.

$$\sum^{\infty}_{n = 1} \frac{1 + 2^n}{3^n}$$ converges to [math]\frac52[/math].
 
Last edited:

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