Convergence of (ln(n))^2/sqrt(n) - Series Tests Explained

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the expression (ln(n))^2/sqrt(n), focusing on whether it represents a series or a sequence. Participants are exploring various series tests and their applicability to this logarithmic problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the comparison test and question what to compare the expression to. There is confusion regarding whether the problem pertains to a series or a sequence, leading to discussions about the implications of each.

Discussion Status

The conversation is active, with participants offering insights into the comparison test and its relevance. Some express uncertainty about the nature of the problem, while others clarify that the limit of the sequence should be considered. There is recognition that both the sequence and series converge to 0, but they diverge in terms of their overall behavior.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the distinction between sequences and series, with some expressing confusion over the implications of convergence in each case. The discussion includes references to specific tests and the need for a clear understanding of the underlying theory.

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Homework Statement


(ln(n))^2/sqrt(n)


Homework Equations


Various series tests


The Attempt at a Solution


The answer showed that the series converges to 0, I know I can rule out the nth term test because the limit is 0. However, I'm not sure how to go about this since it's a logarithmic problem. Can someone direct me as to which test to use to get to thsi? Maybe comparison?
 
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Think about comparison test.

*Good idea to use latex: \sum_{n=1}^\infty \frac{\ln^2{n}} {\sqrt{n}}
 
Last edited:
is this a series or a sequence?
 
its a sequence
 
estro said:
Think about comparison test.

what exactly should i compare it to, (im not good with natural logs) I was thinking maybe 1/sqrt(n) but that doesn't show it convergest to 0
 
vipertongn said:
what exactly should i compare it to, (im not good with natural logs) I was thinking maybe 1/sqrt(n) but that doesn't show it convergest to 0

1. What the comparison test says?

2. What is the relation between \frac {1} { \sqrt{x} }\ \ and\ \ \frac{\ln^2{x}}{\sqrt{x}}\ ?
 
if the sequence is:
a_n = \frac{ln(n)^2}{\sqrt{n}}

how about seeing whether you could show, for some n>N that:
ln(n)<n^{1/4}
 
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wait...OHHH to prove convergence if its a series, u use a series test, but this is just a sequence! that means i just need to take the limit to infinity and if its a finite number it should converge! :D am i right?
 
vipertongn said:
wait...OHHH to prove convergence if its a series, u use a series test, but this is just a sequence! that means i just need to take the limit to infinity and if its a finite number it should converge! :D am i right?

You converge to a solution...=)
Look carefully what the comparison test means and says.
 
  • #10
if i recall, comparison test is when you compare a sequence that you don't know to a sequence that u do know converges/diverges
 
  • #11
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  • #12
that stuff is for series, so whether the sum converges, say
S_n = \sum_n a+n = \sum_n \frac{ln(n)^2}{\sqrt{n}}

if this is actually just a sequence of a_n, then showing a limit exists is sufficient
\lim_{n \to \infty} a_n = \lim_{n \to \infty} \frac{ln(n)^2}{\sqrt{n}}

vipertongn - it think you should make sure which it is... in this case the sequence converges to zero, however the series diverges
 
  • #13
it is a sequence, what confused me whas the fact that i find the series to diverge badly but the solutoins said it converged to zero :3 I understand it now
 
  • #14
\frac {1} { \sqrt{n} }<\frac{\ln^2{n}}{\sqrt{n}},\ \forall\ n>e

\sum_{n=e}^\infty \frac{1}{\sqrt{n}}\ is\ divergent\ so\ from\ the\ comparison\ test\ \sum_{n=e}^\infty \frac{\ln^2{n}}{\sqrt{n}}\ is\ also\ divergent\

Both sequences converge to 0, but don't confuse the convergence of sequences to convergence of their series.
It seems to me you're not familiar enough with the theory.
 
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