Convergent Telescoping Series: \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \arctan(n+1)-\arctan(n)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the convergent telescoping series represented by the expression \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \arctan(n+1) - \arctan(n)\). Participants clarify that when evaluating the limit \(s_n = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty} (\arctan 2 - \arctan 1) + (\arctan 3 - \arctan 2) + \ldots + (\arctan(n+1) - \arctan n)\), all terms cancel except for \(\arctan 1\). The confusion arises regarding the limit of \(\arctan(n+1) - \arctan 1\), which participants resolve by recognizing that the series converges and does not continue indefinitely.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in calculus
  • Familiarity with the arctangent function
  • Knowledge of telescoping series
  • Basic concepts of convergence in infinite series
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the arctangent function and its limits
  • Explore examples of telescoping series in calculus
  • Learn about convergence tests for infinite series
  • Investigate the implications of limits in series evaluations
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus and series convergence, as well as anyone interested in advanced mathematical concepts involving limits and functions.

courtrigrad
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[tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \arctan(n+1)-\arctan(n)[/tex].

So we want to take [tex]\lim s_{n} = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty} (\arctan 2-\arctan 1)+(\arctan 3-\arctan 2) + ... + (\arctan(n+1)-\arctan n)[/tex]. From this I can see all of the terms cancel except [tex]\arctan 1[/tex]. But then how do we get: [tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty} \arctan(n+1)-\arctan 1[/tex]? Wouldn't the [tex]\arctan(n+1)[/tex] cancel out?

Thanks
 
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I got it. I was assuming that it would keep on going. But it stops. I have to take the limit. so [tex]\arctan(n+1)[/tex] and a [tex]-\arctan 1[/tex] are left.
 

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