Finding the Sum of an Infinite Series with a Given Radius |x|<1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the sum of an infinite series defined for the condition |x|<1. The series in question is expressed as a summation involving alternating terms and a polynomial in the denominator.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various approaches including differentiation of the series, substitution of variables, and the use of partial fractions. Questions arise about the validity of the original poster's method and the implications of variable changes.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants providing insights and alternative methods. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of partial fractions, and there is an acknowledgment of the need for careful handling of variable changes. However, no consensus on a single approach has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of imposed homework rules, as participants are cautious about providing complete solutions and are focused on exploring the problem's structure and assumptions.

stefaneli
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Homework Statement



I need to find the sum of a given infinite series when [itex]|x|<1[/itex] (which is the radius of this series)

Homework Equations



[itex]\sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}\frac{x^{2n+1}}{4n^2-1}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I've tried to do the following:

[itex]S'(x) = \sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}\frac{x^{2n}}{2n-1} \\<br /> S''(x) = \sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}\frac{2nx^{2n-1}}{2n-1}\\<br /> S'''(x) = 2\sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}nx^{2(n-1)}\\[/itex]

And I was thinking about substitution [itex]t = x^2[/itex], but I had no success.
 
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hi stefaneli! :smile:
stefaneli said:
[itex]S'(x) = \sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}\frac{x^{2n}}{2n-1}[/itex]


[itex]= x\sum_{n=1}^{∞}(-1)^{n+1}\frac{x^{2n-1}}{2n-1}[/itex] :wink:
 
Thanks tiny-tim. I don't know how I haven't noticed. Stupid.:) But can it be done the way I started? Just curious.
 
stefaneli said:
… can it be done the way I started?

i suppose so, but you'd need to be very careful when you change the variable :frown:
 
Try doing partial fractions. IE 1/(4n^2-1)= 1/2*(1/(2n-1)-1/(2n+1))
 
Your answer will be something like 1/2*((x^2-1)arctan(x)-x), just use partial fractions, and get it into a more manageable form
 

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