Help with Math Proof: Bounded Sequence (xn), (yn) & Limsup (xn)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving properties of the bounded sequence (xn) and its associated sequence (yn), defined as yn=sup{xm : m ≥ n}. It establishes that (yn) is a decreasing sequence bounded below, leading to the conclusion that lim(yn)=inf(yn) represents limsup(xn). Additionally, the forum addresses whether (yn) is a subsequence of (xn) and whether every bounded sequence (xn) has a convergent subsequence to limsup(xn), providing an alternative proof for the Bolzano-Weierstrass Theorem (BWT).

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  • Understanding of bounded sequences in real analysis
  • Familiarity with the concept of supremum and infimum
  • Knowledge of the Monotone Convergence Theorem (MCT)
  • Basic principles of subsequences in sequences
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  • Study the Monotone Convergence Theorem (MCT) in detail
  • Explore the properties of supremum and infimum in sequences
  • Investigate subsequences and their convergence properties
  • Review the Bolzano-Weierstrass Theorem (BWT) and its implications
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Mathematics students, particularly those studying real analysis, educators teaching sequence convergence, and anyone interested in advanced mathematical proofs related to bounded sequences.

SR2
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Let (xn) be a bounded sequence. Denote yn=sup{xm : m is greater or equal to n}. Prove

(a) (yn) is a decreasing and bounded below.

Thus, by MCT, there exists a lim(yn)=inf(yn). this limit is called limsup(xn).

(b) Is (yn) necessarily subsequence of (xn)? if so, argue why, if not, give an example where (yn) is not a subsequence of (xn).

(c) Is it true that every bounded sequence (xn) has a subsequence convergent to limsup(xn)?. If so prove it (This would provide an alternative proof for BWT!)

I feel quite clueless- what elements are there in yn.
- how do you prove that yn is decreasing if xn is increasing?
-is xm a subsequence of xn?

-also it would help if I could get a rough idea of how to prove part a and c.
 
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Hi SR2! :smile:

With these kind of questions (and with every math question actually), I find it best to start of with some examples. So, let's say I give you the following sequences:

(-1)^n,~\frac{1}{n},~\frac{(-1)^n}{n},~-\frac{1}{n}

can you calculate the correspond sequence (y_n) for me and can you calculate the limsup for me?
 

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