Harmonic Numbers Identity Proof?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on proving the identity $$\sum_{k=1}^n \frac{H_k}{k} = \frac{H_n^2+H^{(2)}_n}{2}$$, where $$H_k$$ represents the k-th harmonic number and $$H^{(k)}_n$$ denotes the k-th generalized harmonic number. The discussion highlights the need for a detailed breakdown of the proof steps, indicating that crucial elements are currently omitted. Participants emphasize the importance of clarity in mathematical proofs to enhance understanding.

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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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