Does the series arctan n converge?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Bazzinga
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Series
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The series \(\sum^{\infty}_{n=1} \arctan(n)\) diverges. The limit \(\lim_{n\rightarrow +\infty} \arctan(n)\) approaches \(\frac{\pi}{2}\), indicating that the series does not converge. The discussion emphasizes the importance of applying the test for divergence as a first step in determining convergence, particularly for series that are not decreasing.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series convergence tests, specifically the test for divergence.
  • Familiarity with the arctangent function and its properties.
  • Basic knowledge of limits in calculus.
  • Concept of increasing and decreasing functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the test for divergence in detail and its application to series.
  • Explore the properties of the arctangent function, particularly its asymptotic behavior.
  • Learn about other convergence tests, such as the integral test and comparison test.
  • Investigate proof by induction techniques for establishing properties of functions.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in calculus, mathematicians analyzing series convergence, and anyone interested in understanding the behavior of the arctangent function in the context of infinite series.

Bazzinga
Messages
45
Reaction score
0
I'm sure it doesn't, but how do I find out?

\sum^{infinity}_{n=1} arctan (n)

I thought about using the integral test, but it's not decreasing. Any hints?

Could I somehow use proof by induction to show that its an increasing function?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What is \lim_{n\rightarrow +\infty}{arctan(n)}?? Does this tell you something about convergence?
 
pi/2, so by the test for divergence it must diverge! Ohh
 
Correct! A good advice: Always apply the test for divergence first!
 
Thanks :)
 
micromass said:
Correct! A good advice: Always apply the test for divergence first!
Especially since it's probably the easiest test.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K