Converting Sigma Notation: Simplifying Binomial Theorem

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on simplifying expressions involving sigma notation and the Binomial Theorem, specifically the transformation of sums like \(\sum_{k=0}^n {^n}C_k a^k b^{n-k} = (a+b)^n\). Participants discuss methods to efficiently handle exam questions that require converting sigma notation, such as \(\sum_{k=1}^{n} {^n}C_k 3^k\), and the importance of recognizing hidden variables in binomial expansions. The final answer derived is \(\sum_{k=0}^n {^n}C_k 3^k - {^n}C_0 3^0 = 4^n - 1\), demonstrating the application of integration and differentiation techniques to solve complex problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Binomial Theorem and its applications
  • Familiarity with sigma notation and its manipulation
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, specifically integration and differentiation
  • Proficiency in LaTeX for mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the Binomial Theorem in depth
  • Learn techniques for manipulating sigma notation
  • Explore integration and differentiation of power series
  • Practice converting complex sigma expressions into simpler forms
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Students preparing for exams in calculus or discrete mathematics, educators teaching the Binomial Theorem, and anyone looking to enhance their skills in manipulating sigma notation and understanding its applications in combinatorial problems.

  • #61


I like Serena said:
What do you get if you fill in x=0 in this formula?
f(x) = \frac{x(x+1)^{n+1}}{n+1}-\frac{(x+1)^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)} - \frac {x^2} 2 + C

If i would fill x=0 in this formula i get
f(x) = \frac{0^{n+2}}{n+1}-\frac{0^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)}+ C

Is it correct..?
 
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  • #62


Noooo. ;)
You need to fix the second term.
 
  • #63


I like Serena said:
Noooo. ;)
You need to fix the second term.

Ok fixed. :smile:
f(x) =-\frac{1^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)}+ C

Is it ok..?
 
  • #64


Yes... :smile:
 
  • #65


I like Serena said:
Yes... :smile:

But now what's the C?
 
  • #66


Pranav-Arora said:
But now what's the C?

Set the expression equal to zero (since we had f(0)=0) and solve C.
 
  • #67


I like Serena said:
Set the expression equal to zero (since we had f(0)=0) and solve C.

I set it to 0 and i get
C=\frac{1^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)}

So therefore our final answer is:-
f(x)=\frac{x(x+1)^{n+1}}{n+1}-\frac{(x+1)^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)} - \frac {x^2} 2 + \frac{1^{n+2}}{(n+1)(n+2)}

Substituting x=1, i get
f(1)=\frac{n.2^{n+2}-n^2-3n-4}{2(n+1)(n+2)}

Is it right..?
Can i simplify it further?
 
  • #68


Pranav-Arora said:
Is it right..?
Can i simplify it further?

You're expression for f(x) is right! :smile:

However your simplification after substitution of x=1 is wrong. :(

You can check by for instance filling in n=1.
(What should the result be for n=1 and for n=2? And does your expression match it?)

And actually I would recommend simplifying as little as possible.
Simplify the obvious things.
But do not try to simplify too much, since it opens up the door to mistakes.
And especially if the resulting expression is not really simpler, it's not worthwhile anyway.
 
  • #69


I like Serena said:
You're expression for f(x) is right! :smile:

However your simplification after substitution of x=1 is wrong. :(

You can check by for instance filling in n=1.
(What should the result be for n=1 and for n=2? And does your expression match it?)

And actually I would recommend simplifying as little as possible.
Simplify the obvious things.
But do not try to simplify too much, since it opens up the door to mistakes.
And especially if the resulting expression is not really simpler, it's not worthwhile anyway.

Thanks, i would correct it. :smile:
So now we are done with this question, Right..?
 
  • #70


Pranav-Arora said:
Thanks, i would correct it. :smile:
So now we are done with this question, Right..?

Hmm, you still didn't give the right answer... :rolleyes:

But if you substitute x=1 without simplifying it, that would be a proper answer, so I guess we're done, with only a technicality left. :smile:
 

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