Convergence: Root Test Inconclusive

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the convergence or divergence of series using various tests, including the root test and the ratio test. Participants are exploring the implications of their calculations and the applicability of different convergence tests.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the root test and the ratio test for specific series. There are attempts to clarify the results of the tests and the implications of limits calculated. Questions arise regarding the validity of using the nth term test and the impact of starting the series at different indices.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on alternative tests to consider, while others are questioning their calculations and assumptions. The conversation reflects a mix of attempts to clarify misunderstandings and explore different approaches without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There are mentions of specific series and the results of applying various convergence tests, with some participants acknowledging mistakes in their calculations. The discussion includes concerns about the implications of starting the series at different indices.

JRangel42
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Homework Statement



I'm this series to see if it's convergent or divergent. I tried the root test, but it came out inclusive, and now I am trying to figure out if the ration test works. The only thing I'm asking which would be the right test for this.

Homework Equations



∞Ʃn=1 (2n+1)^n/(n^2n)

The Attempt at a Solution



[(2n+1)^n/(n^2)]^1/n
= (2n+1)/(n^2)
= \stackrel{}{lim n\rightarrow}∞ (2n+1)/(n^2)
= 1/1
= 1
 
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Oh, come on. The limit of (2n+1)/n^2 is not 1.
 
Oh, jeez! You're right! I made a dumb mistake and forgot to divide the 1 in (2n+1) by n^2. Oh, and thanks.
 
hello, i have another problem. Could you help me ?
The problem is ;

∞Ʃn=0 (1+1/n)^n

When I use root theorem;

n√((1+1/n)^n) = (1+1/n)

lim n→∞ (1+1/n) = 1

Result is inconclusive so what should I do ?

thanks in advance
 
crescent72 said:
hello, i have another problem. Could you help me ?
The problem is ;

∞Ʃn=0 (1+1/n)^n

When I use root theorem;

n√((1+1/n)^n) = (1+1/n)

lim n→∞ (1+1/n) = 1

Result is inconclusive so what should I do ?

thanks in advance

Try the nth term test. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Term_test
 
Ok I tried it:

lim n→∞ (1+(1/n))^n = e (it is written in some theorem)

And rule of nth term test is
If lim n→∞ an ≠0 or if the limit does not exist, then ∞Ʃn=1 an diverges.

My result is 'e' is not equal 0 so, ∞Ʃn=1 an diverges.

My original question :

∞Ʃn=0 an
Is there any problem that in my question the sigma starts with 0 but nth term test rule says sigma starts with 1.

Does it change anything ?

If not, my result is divergence.
 
crescent72 said:
Ok I tried it:

lim n→∞ (1+(1/n))^n = e (it is written in some theorem)

And rule of nth term test is
If lim n→∞ an ≠0 or if the limit does not exist, then ∞Ʃn=1 an diverges.

My result is 'e' is not equal 0 so, ∞Ʃn=1 an diverges.

My original question :

∞Ʃn=0 an
Is there any problem that in my question the sigma starts with 0 but nth term test rule says sigma starts with 1.

Does it change anything ?

If not, my result is divergence.

No, it doesn't change anything, and that's an important point. All that matters for convergence or divergence is what happens 'near infinity'. Changing any finite number of terms of your series doesn't affect convergence.
 
Ok, I got it. Thank you so much.
 

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