How do I find the sum of a series in terms of n?

In summary, the conversation suggests using generating functions to find the sum of the series 1+2x3^2+3x3^4+...+(n+1)3^2n in terms of n. The steps involve finding the generating function for the series, subtracting it from another generating function, and evaluating the result at 1. However, the conversation also mentions using the summation sign and taking derivatives to find sums, which may be relevant to solving the problem.
  • #1
vin-math
10
0
Can anyone teach me how to find the sum of the series in terms of n in the following:

1+2x3^2+3x3^4+...+(n+1)3^2n

Thx!
 
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  • #2
This can be done with generating functions if you know them.
1. Find the generating function for 1, 3^2, 3^4, ...
2. From this, find the generating function for 1, 2*3^2, ...
3. Find the generating function for (n+2)*3^(2(n+1)), (n+3)*3^(2(n+2)), ...
4. Subtract the latter from the former and evaluate at 1.
 
  • #3
0rthodontist said:
This can be done with generating functions if you know them.
1. Find the generating function for 1, 3^2, 3^4, ...
2. From this, find the generating function for 1, 2*3^2, ...
3. Find the generating function for (n+2)*3^(2(n+1)), (n+3)*3^(2(n+2)), ...
4. Subtract the latter from the former and evaluate at 1.



i don't know what generating function is but what i know is to use the summation sign to do this kind of question. i still can't do it...
 
  • #4
You might find it easier to try and sum:

[tex]1+2x^2+3x^4+\ldots+(n+1)x^{2n}[/tex]
 
  • #5
You might find it easier to try and sum:

[tex]1+2x^2+3x^4+\ldots+(n+1)x^{2n}[/tex]

It's not quite a geometric series, but can you turn it into one?
 
  • #6
Okay--what sums can you do that might be relevant?
 
  • #7
shmoe said:
You might find it easier to try and sum:

[tex]1+2x^2+3x^4+\ldots+(n+1)x^{2n}[/tex]

It's not quite a geometric series, but can you turn it into one?


i just can do till this step:

n+1 E(Sigma) r=1 (r*x^(r-1))
 
  • #8
0rthodontist said:
Okay--what sums can you do that might be relevant?



I can do the summation of x, x^2 ...x^n, x(x+1),x(x+1)(x+2)...

actually this is my first time to touch this kind of math:)
 
  • #9
Well--
x + x^2 + ... + x^n
Take the derivative with respect to x, both term-by-term and in the sum you know.
 
Last edited:

1. How do I find the sum of an arithmetic series?

The formula for finding the sum of an arithmetic series is: S = (n/2)(a + l), where n is the number of terms, a is the first term, and l is the last term. Simply plug in these values into the formula to find the sum.

2. What is the sum of a geometric series?

The formula for finding the sum of a geometric series is: S = a(1 - r^n) / (1 - r), where a is the first term, r is the common ratio, and n is the number of terms. Plug in these values to find the sum.

3. How do I find the sum of a series with a changing pattern?

If the series has a changing pattern, it is not an arithmetic or geometric series. In this case, you can use the general formula for finding the sum of a series: S = a(1 - r^n) / (1 - r), where a is the first term, r is the common ratio, and n is the number of terms. You may need to identify the pattern and values before plugging them into the formula.

4. Can I use a calculator to find the sum of a series?

Yes, you can use a calculator to find the sum of a series. Many calculators have a "sum" function that allows you to input the series and calculate the sum directly. However, it is still important to understand the formulas and concepts behind finding the sum of a series.

5. What is the difference between a finite and infinite series?

A finite series has a specific number of terms and can be added up to find the sum. An infinite series has an infinite number of terms and cannot be added up to find a definite sum. However, we can use mathematical concepts such as limits to find the sum of an infinite series.

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