Help with determining if a series is convergent or divergent question

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The discussion centers on determining the convergence of a series, with participants noting that it is not geometric due to the non-constant ratio of consecutive terms, although that ratio approaches a limit. A key point raised is whether the limit of the series must be zero for convergence, specifically examining the limit of (3^n + 4^n)/(7^n) as n approaches infinity. One participant suggests dividing the numerator and denominator by 7^n to simplify the limit calculation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of the ratio test and understanding the behavior of terms in the series. Overall, the participants seek clarity on convergence criteria and methods for proving it.
student93
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Homework Statement



Problem is attached in this post.

Homework Equations



Problem is attached in this post.

The Attempt at a Solution



I know how to find the sum of this series, but I don't know what method to use in order to prove that this series converges. Also I don't understand how I'm supposed to tell as to whether or not this is a geometric series.
 

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student93 said:

Homework Statement



Problem is attached in this post.

Homework Equations



Problem is attached in this post.

The Attempt at a Solution



I know how to find the sum of this series, but I don't know what method to use in order to prove that this series converges. Also I don't understand how I'm supposed to tell as to whether or not this is a geometric series.

It's not geometric because the ratio of consecutive terms isn't a constant, but that ratio does approach a limit. Is that enough of a clue?
 
Dick said:
It's not geometric because the ratio of consecutive terms isn't a constant, but that ratio does approach a limit. Is that enough of a clue?

Would the limit have to be 0 for the series to convergent?

Lim (3^n + 4^n)/(7^n) n -> ∞ = 0 For the series to be convergent? (I actually tried this, but can't seem to find a method to solve for such a limit).
 
Last edited:
student93 said:
Would the limit have to be 0 for the series to convergent?

Lim (3^x + 4^x)/(7^x) n -> ∞ = 0 For the series to be convergent? (I actually tried this, but can't seem to find a method to solve for such a limit).

You mean Lim (3^n + 4^n)/(7^n) n -> ∞ = 0. You should be able to. Divide numerator and denominator by 7^n. But that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about the ratio ##\frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n}##.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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