Convergence or Divergence of a Geometric Series with r= 1/10

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on evaluating the geometric series Σ 2(1/10)^n from n=1 to infinity. Participants clarify that since the common ratio r=1/10 is less than 1, the series converges. The correct evaluation of the series results in a sum of 2/9, as opposed to 20/9 if the summation started at n=0. The question prompts users to determine convergence or divergence, leading to some confusion initially. Ultimately, the series converges, confirming the evaluation of 2/9.
Punchlinegirl
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Evaluate \Sigma 2(1/10)^n or explain why it diverges. (Infinity is on the top of the sum and n=1 on the bottom, I just didn't know how to put it in latex)

This was a test question that I got wrong. I thought that it was a geometric series with r= 1/10. This would mean that r is less than 1 so the series would converge. Why is the question saying that it will diverge?
 
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Punchlinegirl said:
Why is the question saying that it will diverge?

It's not, it's saying to either evaluate it or explain why it diverges. If it just told you to evaluate it, then it would be telling you that the series converges. They want you to figure that out for yourself. Far as I can tell, that's a converging series with a value of 2/9.
 
I get \frac{2}{9},too.It would have been \frac{20}{9},had the summation started from n=0.

To the OP:

\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{2}{10^{n}}


Daniel.
 
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