Convergence/Divergence of a Geometric series with a Factorial

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The sequence {an} defined as an = n!/n^n converges to 0 as n approaches infinity. This conclusion is reached by comparing the growth rates of n! and n^n, where n! grows slower than n^n. The limit of the sequence can be established using the ratio test or Stirling's approximation, confirming that the sequence diverges to 0.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of factorial notation and properties
  • Familiarity with limits and convergence in sequences
  • Knowledge of asymptotic analysis techniques
  • Basic grasp of the ratio test for series convergence
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Stirling's approximation for factorial growth
  • Learn about the ratio test for determining convergence
  • Explore comparisons of growth rates between functions
  • Investigate other sequences involving factorials and exponential functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on sequences and series, as well as educators looking for examples of convergence and divergence in mathematical analysis.

sikrut
Messages
48
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



Determine if the sequence {an} below converges or diverges. Find the limit of each convergent sequence

an = n!/nn

Hint: Compare with 1/n .

Find the limit of the sequence {an} if it converges.


I missed the lesson on factorials, and the book is useless. Sorry if this seems rather simple...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Factorial is n! = 1*2*3*..*n, and n^n = n*n*n*...*n. Which one is bigger now?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K