Estimating a sum with an error of 0.00001 (solution included)

  • Thread starter Thread starter s3a
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Error Sum
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on estimating a sum with an error margin of 0.00001, specifically comparing a sum to an integral in the context of Riemann sums. The integral in question is derived from the function 1/x^5, which is decreasing and positive, indicating that the area under the curve (computed via integral) exceeds the sum of the series represented by the rectangles below the curve. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between sums and integrals, particularly in calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Riemann sums
  • Knowledge of integral calculus
  • Familiarity with the properties of decreasing functions
  • Basic concepts of series convergence
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Riemann sums and their applications in estimating integrals
  • Learn about the Integral Test for convergence of series
  • Explore the implications of decreasing functions in calculus
  • Investigate error estimation techniques in numerical integration
USEFUL FOR

Students of calculus, mathematicians, and anyone interested in understanding the relationship between sums and integrals, particularly in the context of series convergence and error estimation.

s3a
Messages
828
Reaction score
8
The question and solution are both attached. I am stuck at the inequality between the sum and the integral right before stating that the integral's sum is 1/(4k^4).

I am confused as to how I should compare a sum and an integral. I know Integrals are defined as Riemann sums but, to be honest, I forgot about that stuff completely.

Basically, what's the logic behind the comparison?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
 

Attachments

  • P11.jpg
    P11.jpg
    15.6 KB · Views: 440
Physics news on Phys.org
Look at the pictures here. http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/CalcII/IntegralTest.aspx The series in this case represents the area of the rectangles that are below the curve. So the area of the curve (which you can compute with an integral) is greater than the sum of the series. It's important here that 1/x^5 is decreasing and positive, so the rectangles lie below the curve.
 

Similar threads

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