Does Convergence of ln(a) to ln(b) Imply a Converges to b?

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    Convergence Logarithms
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between the convergence of the natural logarithm of a sequence, ln(a), to ln(b), and whether this implies that the sequence a converges to b. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of convergence definitions.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that since ln is a monotonic function, the convergence of ln(a) to ln(b) should imply that a converges to b, but expresses uncertainty in proving this rigorously.
  • Another participant advises using absolute values in the analysis and notes that the multiplication by b is acceptable as long as |b| > 0.
  • A third participant clarifies that both a and b are positive, suggesting that if b is bounded, the analysis should still hold.
  • A later reply introduces a higher-level argument, stating that if ln(an) converges to ln(a), then exponentiation being continuous implies that e^{ln(a_n)} converges to e^{ln(a)}.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of convergence in logarithmic terms, and there is no consensus on whether the initial claim can be definitively proven.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of the positivity of a and b, and the implications of boundedness on the analysis, but do not resolve the mathematical steps or definitions involved in convergence.

GhostSpirit
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Hi,

If I have ln{a} converging to ln{b}, can I claim that a converges to b?

I would think yes, because ln is a monotonic function and we are always sure to get a unique value of ln for any argument 'a'. Is that reasoning correct?

I am not able to prove it by the definition of convergence,

By convergence in logarithm we get: ln(a) - ln(b) < \epsilon,

ln{a/b} < \epsilon

a/b < exp{\epsilon}

(a-b)/b < exp{\epsilon} - 1

a-b < b(exp{\epsilon} - 1)

From here I can claim that since \epsilon is near to zero exp{\epsilon} is near to 1 and hence exp{\epsilon} - 1 < \epsilon_1

Thus,

a - b <b \epsilon_1.

Can I claim from here and a converges to b? The presence of b on the right hand side bothers me. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot...
 
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You should work with absolute values. As far as the multiplication by b, it doesn't affect the analysis as long as |b| > 0.
 
Thanks for the reply. I forgot to mention that a,b >0. So, as long as b is bounded, the analysis should work, right?
 
If you want to use a slightly "higher level" argument:

If ln(an) converges to ln(a), then since exponentiation is continuous, e^{ln(a_n)} converges to e^{ln(a)}
 

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