Does the Infinite Series Converge or Diverge? A Problem on Complex Numbers

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the convergence or divergence of the infinite series defined by the summation from n=1 to infinity of 1/(n^2+i^n), which involves complex numbers. Participants are exploring various methods to analyze the series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the ratio test but encounters difficulties in simplification. Some participants suggest dividing terms by n^2 to facilitate analysis, while others propose that the ratio test may not be suitable and recommend a comparison of absolute values instead.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants offering different perspectives on the appropriate methods for analyzing the series. There is no explicit consensus on the best approach, but various strategies are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of applying convergence tests to a series involving complex numbers, which may introduce additional considerations. The original poster expresses a need for guidance on simplifying their approach.

matpo39
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i need a little help with this problem:

determine if the infinite series converges or diverges.
summation (from n=1..infinity) {1/(n^2+i^n)}

I first applied the ration test to this series and got

(n+1)^2 + i^(n+1) / [n^2 + i^n]

i then multiplied top and bottom by (n^2 - i^n)
which gave

[{(n+1)^2 + i^(n+1) }* (n^2-i^n) ]/{n^4 - i^2n}

this is where i get stuck, i can't seem to simplify it any further.
if some one can give me some advice on it, it would be greatly appreciated.

thanks
 
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the ratio test is the best way to do it. but when you've got an expression like

[tex]\frac{(n+1)^2+c}{n^2+d}[/tex]

all you need to do is divide every term by n^2.
 
Also don't forget that it is the limit of the absolute value of the ratio that counts.
 
I don't think the ratio test works here. A simple comparison (of the terms' absolute values) seems to work better.
 
Last edited:

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