Finding the Product of Sequences a_n and b_n in Terms of x, y, and b_n

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two sequences, {a_n} and {b_n}, defined in terms of variables x and y. The task is to find the product a_1 a_2 a_3 ... a_n expressed in terms of x, y, and b_n.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss substituting values for n to explore the sequences and attempt to express x and y in terms of a_n and b_n. There is also mention of using algebraic identities related to the sequences.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to manipulate the sequences and explore relationships between them. Some participants suggest that certain identities may lead to insights, while others express uncertainty about their usefulness. Guidance has been offered regarding the potential relationship between b_n and the product of the sequences.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply. There is an ongoing exploration of the definitions and relationships of the sequences involved.

utkarshakash
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Homework Statement


{a_n} and {b_n} are two sequences given by a_n = (x)^{1/2^n}+(y)^{1/2^n} and
b_n = (x)^{1/2^n}-(y)^{1/2^n}. Then find a_1 a_2 a_3 ... a_n in terms of x,y and b_n


Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



I tried substituting n=1,2,3 and so on for a few terms of a_n but really couldn't see anything important. I tried finding x and y instead in terms of a_n and b_n and got this

x =\left( \dfrac{a_n + b_n}{2} \right) ^{2^n} \\<br /> y = \left( \dfrac{a_n - b_n}{2} \right) ^{2^n}
 
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utkarshakash said:

Homework Statement


{a_n} and {b_n} are two sequences given by a_n = (x)^{1/2^n}+(y)^{1/2^n} and
b_n = (x)^{1/2^n}-(y)^{1/2^n}. Then find a_1 a_2 a_3 ... a_n in terms of x,y and b_n


Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



I tried substituting n=1,2,3 and so on for a few terms of a_n but really couldn't see anything important. I tried finding x and y instead in terms of a_n and b_n and got this

x =\left( \dfrac{a_n + b_n}{2} \right) ^{2^n} \\<br /> y = \left( \dfrac{a_n - b_n}{2} \right) ^{2^n}

Observe that
$$b_n=(x)^{1/2^n}-(y)^{1/2^n}=((x)^{1/2^{n+1}})^2-((y)^{1/2^{n+1}})^2$$
That should give you a hint. :)
 
Pranav-Arora said:
Observe that
$$b_n=(x)^{1/2^n}-(y)^{1/2^n}=((x)^{1/2^{n+1}})^2-((y)^{1/2^{n+1}})^2$$
That should give you a hint. :)

I can only think of using the identity x^2 - y^2 = (x+y)(x-y). But this does not help here :(
 
utkarshakash said:
I can only think of using the identity x^2 - y^2 = (x+y)(x-y). But this does not help here :(

It does help. Do you see that you should get ##b_n=b_{n+1}a_{n+1}## from your identity?
 
Pranav-Arora said:
It does help. Do you see that you should get ##b_n=b_{n+1}a_{n+1}## from your identity?

Nice approach Thanks!
 

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