Finding P(n) for a Challenging Sum Series: A Hint for Simplifying the Expression

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding a simplified expression for the infinite sum series defined by P(x), which includes arctangent functions and requires manipulation of trigonometric identities. The context is rooted in series and sequences, particularly focusing on the behavior of sums involving arctangent.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using trigonometric identities to simplify the arctangent expression and explore potential substitutions. There are attempts to factor the denominator and split terms, but some participants express difficulty with the complexity of the expressions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various participants sharing their thoughts and attempts at simplification. Some have proposed substitutions and transformations, while others have expressed confusion or sought clarification on specific terms. There is no explicit consensus on a single approach, but multiple lines of reasoning are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention challenges with the complexity of the expressions and the need for hints or alternative methods. There is also a reference to homework constraints that may limit the approaches taken.

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Homework Statement


Let

P(x) = \displaystyle\sum\limits_{k=1}^\infty arctan (\frac{x-1}{(k+x+1)sqrt(k+1) + (k+2)sqrt(k+x)}) (infite sum from K=1 to infinity)

a) Simplify the expression for P(n), where n is a non-negative integer

Homework Equations



tg(a-b)=\frac{tg(a)-tg(b)}{1+tg(a)tg(b)}

The Attempt at a Solution



Im looking for a hint. My first idea was to somehow use trig formulae, but i can't factorize the denominator or split it into partial fractions. Now I am stuck, any hints?
 
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I think I sort of see how to do this...Let's give it a go. I'll post more later if something else comes to me:

First, there's that pesky arctangent in there. So, let's use the relation you have to get rid of it. That is, we need to propose two variables a and b that give us

\Sigma\arctan[\tan(a-b)]=\Sigma(a-b)

Now let's find those coefficients...
 
I've tried that I the result was really ugly. Something like this:

a = \frac{\frac{x-1}{(k+x+1)sqrt(k+1)}+sqrt(C)}{2}

where C is a very complicated fraction. I don't think that's the way to go

EDIT: I've succeeded. :D :D but followed a different path..

MOD's please delete this post, i don't want to double post
 
Last edited:
Is there a simpler form of this?

$\sum\limits_{i=2}^n \arctan(\sqrt{i})$
 
Care to post the solution?
 
Substitute u=sqrt(k+1), v=sqrt(k+x). After some algebra, the final solution is:

P(n) = (n-1) \frac{\pi}{2} - \sum\limits_{i=2}^n \arctan(\sqrt{i})

Now i need another way to write that
 
That's neat! The square root of the imaginary term can be rewritten as

i=e^{i\tfrac{\pi}{2}}
\sqrt{i}=e^{i\tfrac{\pi}{4}}
\sqrt{i}=\cos\tfrac{\pi}{4}+i\sin\tfrac{\pi}{4}
\sqrt{i}=\tfrac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\left(1+i\right)
 
No, you misunderstood it. i is not an imaginary term, its a variable (integer) that goes from 2 to n
 
Ah.

Seems like you've got this one. I'm curious, could you post the solution when you get it? I'd be much obliged.
 

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