Finding limit of infinite term

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around finding the limit of a functional equation represented as f(x)^2 = 1 + (x^2)f(x+1). The user, an undergraduate in mathematics, struggles with the concept of convergence due to the absence of a defined starting term. The solution involves recognizing the identity f(x) = f(-x) and establishing a recursive relationship to define subsequent terms based on a base term, such as a1 = 1. By analyzing the properties of the sequence, one can determine its limit.

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  • Understanding of functional equations
  • Knowledge of recursion in sequences
  • Familiarity with convergence concepts in mathematics
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
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This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate mathematics students, educators teaching functional equations, and anyone interested in advanced sequence convergence techniques.

phasair
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Homework Statement



The problem is not homework, just something that has been bothering me. It's in picture form, in the attachment.
I'm an undergraduate in math, and this type of convergence is a bit unknown to me. What I've seen so far are normal sequences and series, and power series.
This however, is different, because there is no 'first' term, no 'beginning', so I don't really know how to approach this.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



The equation I've found that describes this term is:

f(x)^2 = 1 + (x^2)f(x+1)

In this case, we would be looking for f(2). However, that equation doesn't contain enough information to solve it, because there are two free variables.

Any help would be appreciated.
 

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You found a functional equation. You only need one particular value of the function. For example, what is f(0)?
Note: You have an identity f(x)=f(-x) here. Use it.
 
Last edited:
Actually, this can be expressed as a recursion, indexed by a single term.Then

you can talk about convergence of the sequence:

You define a base term, and then every other term can be defined in terms of the previous one(s).

a1:=1

a2 is a function of a1.

Now, if you can find general properties of the sequence, you can ( when possible) determine its limit.
 
Last edited:

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