Does the p-Series Diverge for p<1?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence and divergence of the p-series, specifically examining the case when p is less than 1. Participants are exploring the implications of the comparison test in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to prove divergence for the p-series when p<1, using the comparison test. Questions are raised regarding the clarity of the original poster's reasoning and the specific definitions being used.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the original poster's intentions and the details of their reasoning. Some guidance has been offered regarding the application of the comparison test, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential confusion regarding the application of the comparison test and the definitions of convergence and divergence in the context of the p-series.

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Homework Statement



\sum\frac{1}{n^{p}} converges for p&gt;1 and diverges for p&lt;1, p\geq0.

The Attempt at a Solution



(1) Diverges: I want to prove it diverges for 1-p and using the comparison test show it also diverges for p. \sum\frac{1}{n^{1-p}}=\sum\frac{1}{n^{1}n^{-p}}=\sum n^{p}/n=\sum n^{p-1} for p&lt;1. \sum n^{p-1} ...but this series converges? Where did I go wrong?
 
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autre said:

Homework Statement



\sum\frac{1}{n^{p}} converges for p&gt;1 and diverges for p&lt;1, p\geq0.

The Attempt at a Solution



(1) Diverges: I want to prove it diverges for 1-p and using the comparison test show it also diverges for p. \sum\frac{1}{n^{1-p}}=\sum\frac{1}{n^{1}n^{-p}}=\sum n^{p}/n=\sum n^{p-1} for &lt;1. \sum n^{p-1} ...but this series converges? Where did I go wrong?
It's not very clear what you're thinking here. Can you elaborate a bit? What is less than 1?
 
vela said:
It's not very clear what you're thinking here. Can you elaborate a bit? What is less than 1?

Sorry, typo -- p<1.
 
What exactly are you trying to prove? You refer to "it" but what exactly is "it"?
 
vela said:
What exactly are you trying to prove? You refer to "it" but what exactly is "it"?

Oh, sorry -- I want to prove that \sum\frac{1}{n^{p}} diverges if \sum\frac{1}{n^{1-p}} diverges using the Comparison Test.
 
If you're using the comparison test, you need to show that
$$\frac{1}{n^p} \ge \frac{1}{n^{1-p}} = n^{p-1}$$Can you do that?
 

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