Discrete Math: Proving a Homework Statement

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving a limit statement in discrete mathematics, specifically the limit of the sequence defined by \( a_n = 2^{1/n} \) as \( n \) approaches infinity. Participants emphasize the importance of not assuming the conclusion is true while proving the hypothesis. A suggestion is made to solve the equation \( 2^{1/x} = r \) to find integer values of \( n \) that satisfy the inequality, rather than relying solely on graphing, which is discouraged by the professor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in calculus, specifically the definition of limits.
  • Familiarity with discrete mathematics concepts, particularly sequences and series.
  • Basic knowledge of graphing functions and interpreting their behavior.
  • Ability to manipulate exponential equations, such as \( 2^{1/n} \).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the formal definition of limits, including the epsilon-delta definition.
  • Learn how to manipulate and solve exponential equations, particularly those involving bases like 2.
  • Explore techniques for proving statements in discrete mathematics, focusing on direct proof methods.
  • Review examples of sequences and their limits to solidify understanding of convergence.
USEFUL FOR

Students of discrete mathematics, educators teaching limit concepts, and anyone looking to strengthen their proof-writing skills in mathematical analysis.

planauts
Messages
86
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


http://puu.sh/1OfE2

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I am not really sure about this one! :(
I think it's 1 because
http://puu.sh/1OfY0
http://puu.sh/1OfYE

I came up the number by working backwards (assuming the conclusion is true). However, for a proof, I cannot assume the conclusion is true and try proving the hypothesis. Could someone nudge me to the right direction in proving this statement?

Thanks!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
As you say,
\lim_{x \to \infty} 2^{\frac{1}{x}} = 1
But since this is discrete mathematics, perhaps it's more intuitive to define an = 21/n and write
\lim_{n \to \infty} a_n = 1

Now can you solve it if I say: "r = 1 + \epsilon" and "definition of limit"?
 
No, I don't understand the second part with epsilon.
 
Do you know what the definition of the limit is?
 
Consider n<0
 
When I graphed it, i found out that r > 0.5 because 2^(-1) is 0.5 since n has to be int and -1 is an int but i don't know how to prove it. Graphing is not a good way, according to my Prof.
 
If you haven't learned the definition of limit yet, another approach is as follows: try solving the equation 2^(1/x) = r first. Once you find x for which the equality holds, you can may use your graph for inspiration for an integer n such that the inequality holds.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K