How to determine if the series is convergent or divergent.

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SUMMARY

The series \(\sum x^2 e^{-x^2}\) is determined to be convergent using the root test. The initial calculation incorrectly placed the exponential term in the numerator, leading to an infinite limit. Upon correcting this to place \(e^{2x+1}\) in the denominator, the limit approaches zero, confirming convergence since it is less than one. This correction highlights the importance of careful manipulation of terms in limit evaluations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series convergence tests, specifically the root test.
  • Familiarity with limits and exponential functions in calculus.
  • Knowledge of manipulating algebraic expressions and limits.
  • Basic understanding of Taylor series expansions and their applications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the root test in various series convergence scenarios.
  • Learn about other convergence tests such as the ratio test and comparison test.
  • Explore the properties of exponential functions and their limits.
  • Review common mistakes in limit calculations and how to avoid them.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on series and sequences, as well as educators teaching convergence tests in mathematical analysis.

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Homework Statement




Determine if the series is convergent or divergent.
[tex]\sum x^2e^{-x^2}[/tex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


[tex] x^2e^{-x^2}=\frac{x^2}{e^{x^2}}[/tex]

[tex]\lim_{x\to\infty } \frac{(x+1)^2}{e^{(x+1)^2}}\frac{e^{x^2}}{x^2}[/tex]

and since [tex](x+1)^2=x^2+2n+1[/tex]

and [tex](x^2)-(x^2+2x+1)=-(2x+1)[/tex]

I get [tex]\lim_{x\to\infty }e^{2x+1}*{(\frac{x+1}{x})}^2=\infty*1=\infty[/tex] which is [tex]> 1[/tex]


so by the root test, it is divergent.
Except I got this wrong on my exam. I was told it should be convergent. Why is this wrong?

 
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[tex] (x^2)-(x^2+2x+1)=-(2x+1)[/tex]

This is the exponent of [tex]e[/tex] on the top, so [tex]e^{2x+1}[/tex] should have been on the bottom.
 


OMG! i looked at this SO MANY TIMES and didn't see that! thank you! Oh how I love this website!
So it goes to zero, which is less than 1 and so convergent! Glad to know i was doing this right I thought i might have been WAY off!
!
 

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