How Can I Prove a Sequence Converges with a Specific Limit?

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    Convergence Sequence
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the convergence of a sequence defined by the limit condition lim(n->∞) (nx(n)) = 0. Participants explore how to demonstrate that there exists an N such that for all n≥N, the inequality -1 < nx(n) < 1 holds. The conversation includes definitions of convergence and attempts to apply them to the specific sequence in question.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty with the sequence and seeks guidance on proving the convergence condition.
  • Another participant suggests starting with the definition of convergence using ε and N, implying that this will lead to a straightforward solution.
  • A different participant attempts to relate the convergence of the sequence to the convergence of a geometric series, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the concepts involved.
  • One participant clarifies the definition of convergence for sequences, emphasizing the need to find N such that |x_n - L| < ε for any ε > 0, and questions the notation used in the original post.
  • A later reply attempts to apply the definition of convergence to derive the desired inequality, proposing to set ε = 1 to achieve the bounds -1 < nx(n) < 1.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the approach to proving the convergence. There are differing interpretations of the convergence definition and its application to the specific sequence.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the notation used (nx(n) vs. x_n) and the specific conditions under which the convergence is being analyzed. Some assumptions about the sequence's behavior as n approaches infinity are not explicitly stated.

tamintl
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Im struggling with the concept of this basic sequence question.

Let x(n) be a sequence such that lim(n->00) (nx(n)) = 0

i.e. it converges to zero...

How could i show that there is an N s.t. for all n≥N : -1 < nx(n) < 1

Any tips would be great.. I don't want an answer.. I want to be guided through it please.

Regards as ever.
Tam
 
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What is the definition (using [itex]\epsilon[/itex] and N) of convergence for a sequence? Once you've written that, it should be straightforward to answer your question.
 
the convergence of a seq:

A sequence {r^n}00n=0 converges if -1< r <1

Attempt at answer:

Same as above but replace 'r^n' with 'nx(n)

Thanks so far
 
^ Wut?? That's the result of convergence of a geometric series, it's very different.

A sequence of real numbers [itex](x_n)[/itex] converges when there exists a number [itex]L \in \mathbb{R}[/itex] such that, for any [itex]\epsilon > 0[/itex], I can find a number [itex]N \in \mathbb{N}[/itex] so that [itex]|x_n - L| < \epsilon[/itex] whenever [itex]n > N[/itex]. This is very wordy but I'm sure this was introduced in your math class. The number L is the limit of the sequence [itex](x_n)[/itex].

What do you mean by "nx(n)"? Do you mean [itex]nx_n[/itex]?? If so, to show your desired result, use the definition from above. We know that for any number [itex]\epsilon > 0[/itex], I can find [itex]N \in \mathbb{N}[/itex] so that [itex]|nx_n - L| < \epsilon[/itex] whenever n > N. Fill in the details now: we know L = 0. Also, the previous statements work for any chosen [itex]\epsilon[/itex] -- how can you choose [itex]\epsilon[/itex] to get the result?
 
Right:

|x(n) - L| < ε

therefore: |nx(n) - 0| < ε

therefore: nx(n) <

so, -ε < nx(n) < ε

so, take epsilon to be ε=1 and we have: -1 < nx(n) < 1

How does this look guys?

Thanks so far
 

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