Convergence of ln(k)/k^3 Series

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence or divergence of the series \(\sum \frac{\ln k}{k^3}\). Participants are examining the behavior of the logarithmic function in relation to the series terms and exploring the implications of their comparisons.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to compare \(\frac{\ln k}{k^3}\) with \(\frac{1}{k^3}\) to argue about divergence, while others question the validity of this comparison based on the properties of \(\ln k\). There are discussions about the relationship between \(\ln k\) and \(k\), with attempts to use inequalities to analyze convergence.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising questions about assumptions made regarding the logarithmic function and its behavior. Some guidance is offered regarding the nature of comparisons in series convergence, but no consensus has been reached on the convergence of the series.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that \(k\) takes on positive integer values, which influences their reasoning about the logarithmic function. There are also indications of potential misunderstandings regarding the properties of logarithmic and polynomial functions.

zeion
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Homework Statement



Determine whether the series converges or diverges.

[tex]\sum \frac{lnk}{k^3}[/tex]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Since lnk always less than 0, so [tex]\frac{lnk}{k^3} \leq \frac{1}{k^3}[/tex] and [tex]\frac{1}{k^3}[/tex]diverges so[tex]\frac{lnk}{k^3}[/tex] diverges.
 
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zeion said:

Homework Statement



Determine whether the series converges or diverges.

[tex]\sum \frac{lnk}{k^3}[/tex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Since lnk always less than 0, so [tex]\frac{lnk}{k^3} \leq \frac{1}{k^3}[/tex] and [tex]\frac{1}{k^3}[/tex]diverges so[tex]\frac{lnk}{k^3}[/tex] diverges.
I count three mistakes here.
1. Why do you think that ln(k) is always < 0? I'm assuming that k = 1, 2, 3, ...
2. The series whose general term is 1/k3 converges.
3. If you want to show that a given series diverges, its terms must be larger than those of a divergent series. If the terms of the given series are smaller than those of a divergent series, you can't conclude anything.
 
Can I argue that [tex]ln(k) < k[/tex] then [tex]\frac{ln(k)}{k^3} < \frac{k}{k^3}[/tex]then it converge because [tex]\frac{1}{k^2}[/tex] converges?
 
I can buy that. However, your should be able to convince yourself that ln(x) < x.
 
Yeah since ln(x) is the inverse of e^x and they reflect on the y =x.
 
The fact that y = ln(x) and y = ex are reflections across the line y = x doesn't prove that ln(x) < x. If y = ex happens to cross this line a few times means that ln(x) will do so, also.
 

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