Finding the interval of convergence and the radius of a power series

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the radius and interval of convergence for a given power series, specifically the series \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{x^{2n-1}}{(n+1)\sqrt{n}}\). Participants explore the implications of applying the ratio test and the behavior of the series at the endpoints of the interval.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the ratio test and the resulting conditions for convergence. There is a focus on the behavior of the series at specific values of \(x\), particularly at the endpoints \(x = 1\) and \(x = -1\). Questions arise regarding the equivalence of the series at these points and the impact on convergence.

Discussion Status

The conversation has led to clarifications about the series' behavior at the endpoints, with some participants confirming that the series at \(x = -1\) differs from that at \(x = 1\). There is acknowledgment of the convergence of the series through the integral test, although no consensus on the final interval of convergence has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a potential typo in the original series expression, which may affect the analysis. The discussion also highlights the importance of verifying convergence at the endpoints of the interval.

Ratio Test =)
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Homework Statement


Find the radius and interval of convergence of the power series:
\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{x^{2n-1}}{(n+1)\sqrt{n}}


Homework Equations


..


The Attempt at a Solution


My soltion:
the ratio test will gives |x^2|=|x|^2
it converges if |x|^2 < 1
i.e. if |x|<1
i.e. if -1<x<1
But the problem here when i substitute x=1 and x=-1 it will give the same series
Is this right?
The resulting series converges by Integral Test.
Radius = 1
 
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x = - 1 doesn't give the same series as x = 1. If x = -1, the series is
\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{(-1)^{2n-1}}{(n+1)\sqrt{n}}
Since 2n - 1 is odd for all integers n, the numerator of the expression in the summation is always -1. If x = 1, the numerator is always +1.
 
Mark44 said:
x = - 1 doesn't give the same series as x = 1. If x = -1, the series is
\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{(-1)^{2n-1}}{(n+1)\sqrt{n}}
Since 2n - 1 is odd for all integers n, the numerator of the expression in the summation is always -1. If x = 1, the numerator is always +1.

Oh...Thanks
But will not affect the convergence right?
since the series which obtained by multiplying a convergent series by a constant is still convergent.
Right?
 
No No Sorry!
there was a typo!
its 2n-2 not 2n-1 in the series =)
Sorry Again.
 
Ratio Test =) said:
No No Sorry!
there was a typo!
its 2n-2 not 2n-1 in the series =)
Sorry Again.

Ok, then it is the same series at x=1 and x=(-1). So you only have to check one of them. Is it convergent?
 
Thanks you.
you saved my life !
It is easy for me.
It converges by integral test.
 
Ratio Test =) said:
Thanks you.
you saved my life !
It is easy for me.
It converges by integral test.

Sure. Or you could compare it to the convergent p-series 1/n^(3/2).
 
Ohhh
My bad
How in Earth I did not notice this :@
 
  • #10
Ratio Test =) said:
Ohhh
My bad
How in Earth I did not notice this :@

I didn't say your way was bad. The integral test works fine.
 
Last edited:

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