Convergence of Ratio Test for Complex Numbers z in C

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the ratio test to a power series involving complex numbers, specifically examining the convergence of the series $$\sum\limits_{n = 0}^{\infty}\frac{2\pi^{n+1}M}{(n+1)!}z^n$$ where \( z \) is a complex number. Participants explore the role of \( z \) in the ratio test and clarify the distinction between coefficients and terms in the context of the series.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the convergence of the series and expresses confusion regarding the role of \( z \) in the limit of the ratio test.
  • Another participant clarifies that the ratio test involves the ratio of coefficients \( \left|\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n}\right| \) and suggests that \( z \) should not be included in this ratio.
  • A later reply reiterates that \( z \) has a power of \( n \) and questions whether this affects the application of the ratio test.
  • Further clarification is provided that in a power series, the coefficients \( a_n \) are distinct from the terms \( a_n z^n \), emphasizing that the ratio test focuses on coefficients.
  • Another participant confirms that the ratio test applies to any series and acknowledges a misunderstanding regarding the concept of coefficients in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit some disagreement regarding the application of the ratio test to the series, particularly concerning the inclusion of \( z \) in the ratio. While some clarify the correct approach, others initially express confusion, indicating that the discussion remains somewhat unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about the nature of \( z \) and its implications for the convergence of the series. The distinction between coefficients and terms is emphasized, but the implications of this distinction on convergence are not fully resolved.

Dustinsfl
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$$\sum\limits_{n = 0}^{\infty}\frac{2\pi^{n+1}M}{(n+1)!}z^n$$

So we get $\lim\limits_{n\to\infty}\left|\frac{\pi z^n}{n+2}\right|$.

This converges but I don't see how. z is in C.
 
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Ratio test involves $\left|\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n}\right|$ where $a_n$, $a_{n+1}$ are coefficients of the series. In other words, $z$ should not be in the ratio.
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
Ratio test involves $\left|\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n}\right|$ where $a_n$, $a_{n+1}$ are coefficients of the series. In other words, $z$ should not be in the ratio.

Even though z has a power of n?

---------- Post added at 08:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:21 PM ----------

dwsmith said:
Even though z has a power of n?

I see my mistake. It should be z not z^n
 
dwsmith said:
It should be z not z^n
In a power series $\sum a_nz^n$, the numbers $a_n$ are called coefficients and the products $a_nz^n$ are called terms. The ratio test involves the ratio of coefficients, not terms. The ratio $a_{n+1}/a_n$ has nothing to do with $z$.
 
The ratio test of a series $\displaystyle \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} a_{n}$ is a test on the quantity $\displaystyle r_{n}=|\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_{n}}|$. In this case is $\displaystyle a_{n}= \frac{2\ \pi^{n+1}\ M}{(n+1)!}\ z^{n}$ so that $\displaystyle r_{n}= |\frac{\pi\ z}{n+2}|$...

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
OK, I had a momentary lapse of reason. Of course, ratio test is a test for any series, not just power series, so the concept of coefficient does not apply here. You are right, chisigma and dwsmith.
 

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