Harmonic Numbers Identity Proof?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving an identity involving harmonic numbers, specifically the equation $$\sum_{k=1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \frac{H_n^2+H^{(2)}_n}{2}$$ where harmonic numbers and their squared forms are defined. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and proof techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a proof of the identity involving harmonic numbers.
  • Another participant suggests that crucial steps in the solution are being omitted.
  • A third participant indicates they will edit the post to include more detailed steps in the solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to have differing views on the completeness of the solution, with some expressing concern over missing details while others are working to clarify the proof.

Contextual Notes

There may be limitations related to the clarity of the proof steps and the definitions of harmonic numbers that are not fully explored in the discussion.

alyafey22
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Prove the following

$$\sum_{k=1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \frac{H_n^2+H^{(2)}_n}{2}$$​

where we define

$$H^{(k)}_n = \sum_{j=1}^n \frac{1}{j^k} \,\,\, ; \,\,\, H^2_n = \left( \sum_{j=1}^n \frac{1}{j}\right)^2 $$​
 
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We have

$$\sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \sum_{1 \le j \le k \le n} \frac{1}{kj}.$$

By symmetry,

$$\sum_{1 \le j \le k \le n} \frac{1}{kj} = \sum_{1 \le k \le j \le n} \frac{1}{kj}.$$

Thus

$$2 \sum_{1 \le j \le k \le n} \frac{1}{kj} = \sum_{1 \le j,\, k \le n} \frac{1}{kj} + \sum_{1 \le j,\,k \le n, k = j} \frac{1}{kj} = \left(\sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{1}{k}\right)^2 + \sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{1}{k^2} = H_n^2 + H_n^{(2)}.$$

Therefore

$$\sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \frac{H_n^2 + H_n^{(2)}}{2}.$$
 
Last edited:
Euge said:
We have

$$\sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \sum_{1 \le j \le k \le n} \frac{1}{kj} = \dfrac{\left(\sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{1}{k}\right)^2 + \sum_{k = 1}^n \frac{1}{k^2}}{2} = \frac{H_n^2 + H_n^{(2)}}{2}.$$

You are hiding the crucial steps in the solution.
 
I will make an edit and put more detail in the solution.
 

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