Geometric Series Homework: Sum of ((n+1)*3^n)/2^(2n)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the sum of the series \(\frac{(n+1)3^n}{2^{2n}}\). Participants are discussing the nature of the series and its convergence properties.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to manipulate the series by splitting it into parts but express difficulty in simplifying further. Others question whether the series can be treated as a geometric series, suggesting it does not fit that form. The use of convergence tests, such as the ratio test and limit comparison test, is mentioned.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the series and its convergence. Some guidance has been offered regarding potential tests for convergence, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach or reasoning.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the series is part of a multiple-choice question regarding its convergence, which adds a layer of complexity to the discussion. There is uncertainty about the application of the limit comparison test and its implications for the series' convergence.

aselin0331
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Homework Statement



The sum of ((n+1)*3^n)/(2^2n)

Homework Equations



absolute value of r must be less than 1 for the series to be convergent.

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried multiplying it out and splitting it up like:

3^n*n/(2^(2n))+3^n/(2^(2n))

but then i am stuck when I try to pull the nth power out...help?
 
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Are you sure you had to do this with geometric series?? Because this isn't a geometric serie, and it can't be brought in the form of a geometric serie...
 
aselin0331 said:

Homework Statement



The sum of ((n+1)*3^n)/(2^2n)

Homework Equations



absolute value of r must be less than 1 for the series to be convergent.

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried multiplying it out and splitting it up like:

3^n*n/(2^(2n))+3^n/(2^(2n))
I don't see any point in doing this.
aselin0331 said:
but then i am stuck when I try to pull the nth power out...help?
What tests do you know that you can use? Ratio test might be one to try.
 
((n+1)*3^n)/(2^2n) = ((n+1)*3^n)/(4^n) = (n+1)*(3/4)^n

This is not a geometric series because the coefficient of q^n is not constant.

To determine convergence you can use the ratio test or the root test.
 
I guess I should have said that this multiple choice question is asking us to select the reason why the series converges and these are the options:

A. Convergent geometric series
B. Convergent p series
C. Comparison(or limit comparison) with a geometric or P-series
D. Converges by alternating series test

I have a feeling that it is limit comparison but when i multiply it by 4^n/3^n (because I am comparing it to 3^n/4^n, it come out to only n+1 and that's infinity.

But this thing converges...I know how to do it with ratio or root which are not options here...
 
If you know it converges (you said so yourself) and the limit comparison test gives you the opposite answer. may be your not using it correctly?

What does the limit comparison test states? also write the full path to your answer.
 

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