Converging or diverging 1/ln(n)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the convergence or divergence of the series from n=2 to infinity of 1/ln(n). Participants explore various convergence tests and comparisons to known series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts the limit test, integral test, and ratio test but finds them inconclusive. They express uncertainty about their integration and seek alternative approaches. Some participants suggest comparing the series to the harmonic series, while others question the application of the comparison test criteria.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively exploring different methods to analyze the series. There is a recognition of potential mistakes in reasoning regarding the comparison test, and some guidance is provided to reconsider the criteria for the test. The discussion remains open without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules and are focused on applying various convergence tests. There is an acknowledgment of confusion regarding the implications of comparisons to the harmonic series.

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Determine if the series n=2 to inf. of 1/ln(n) converges or diverges


Ok so first I tried the limit test (the simple one) and found that it was 0 which was not helpful at all. Then I tried the integral test. It came out to be (integral)1/ln(n)=n/ln(n) + n/(ln(n))^2 + 2(integral from 2 to infin.) 1/(ln(n))^3. I was thinking of possibly doing a direct comparison test, but I have no clue what to compare it to. So then I tried the ratio test. That also failed, because the limit of the absolute value of the ratio was equal to 1 thus inconclusive and leaving me back where I started.

I have no idea how else to approach this problem. I am hoping that I maybe just messed up my integration. If anyone has a clue how to approach this that would be great.
 
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Try comparing it with the harmonic series
 
ahhhh. Just to check. When I do a direct comparison to the harmonic series (which diverges) 1/ln(n) is larger so it must also converge. Is this right or have I been staring at this problem long enough that my logic is swiss cheese?
 
Check the criteria for the comparison test again, you've made one mistake.
 
The only criteria I have for the Direct Comparison test is that "if a series is less than or equal to a converging series then it also converges." and "if it is greater than a diverging series it also diverges." Am I missing something?
 
o wait...duh since harmonic diverges and the 1/lnn is larger it must diverge. that was stupid on my part
 

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