Equivalent Sums Homework: Solve (-6/π) ∑n Even Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves understanding the equivalence of two sums: (-6/π) ∑n even (cos(nx))/(n²-9) and (-6/π) ∑∞n=1 (cos(2nx))/(4n²-9). The discussion centers on the transformation of the sums and the implications of changing the variable.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the reasoning behind the equivalence of the two sums, particularly focusing on the change of variable n = 2m to represent even integers. Questions arise about the implications of this transformation and the nature of the infinite sets involved.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing insights into the change of variable and its effects on the sums. There is a recognition of the need to clarify assumptions about the nature of the integers being summed.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the definitions of even integers and the implications of summing over different sets of natural numbers. The discussion reflects a lack of consensus on the interpretation of the sums but shows productive exploration of the topic.

Calu
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Homework Statement



I have that, for n ∈ ℕ, (-6/π) ∑n even (cos(nx))/(n2-9) is equivalent to (-6/π) ∑n=1 (cos(2nx))/(4n2-9). I don't understand how the two sums are equivalent to each other.

Homework Equations



I honestly have no idea what may be relevant, other than what is above.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm making a guess that the factor of 2 within the cosine function in the second sum allows the sum to be the same as summing over the even natural numbers. However I'm not sure that's correct, and I'm still unsure where the factor of 4 comes from in front of the n2 in the denominator, other than it is 22.
 
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Calu said:

Homework Statement



I have that, for n ∈ ℕ, (-6/π) ∑n even (cos(nx))/(n2-9) is equivalent to (-6/π) ∑n=1 (cos(2nx))/(4n2-9). I don't understand how the two sums are equivalent to each other.

Homework Equations



I honestly have no idea what may be relevant, other than what is above.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm making a guess that the factor of 2 within the cosine function in the second sum allows the sum to be the same as summing over the even natural numbers. However I'm not sure that's correct, and I'm still unsure where the factor of 4 comes from in front of the n2 in the denominator, other than it is 22.

Make the change of variable ##n = 2m## in the first sum and see what you get.
 
LCKurtz said:
Make the change of variable ##n = 2m## in the first sum and see what you get.

Right I see, this would give me what I have in the second sum, obviously with m substituted for n. So can this change of variable be used as I'm summing over twice as many integers?
 
Calu said:
Right I see, this would give me what I have in the second sum, obviously with m substituted for n. So can this change of variable be used as I'm summing over twice as many integers?

All the integers is not "twice as many integers". They are both infinite sets. But you just need to note that all even integers are given by ##2m## as ##m = 1,2,3...##. The index goes through all the natural numbers but ##2m## gives all the evens.
 
LCKurtz said:
All the integers is not "twice as many integers". They are both infinite sets. But you just need to note that all even integers are given by ##2m## as ##m = 1,2,3...##. The index goes through all the natural numbers but ##2m## gives all the evens.

I see now, thanks for your help.
 

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