How to prove this infinite series?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the proof of an infinite series derived from the Basel problem, specifically the series $$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{n^2+3n+1}{n^4+2n^3+n^2}$$ and whether it equals 2. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and proof techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the series and asks for a proof that it equals 2.
  • Another participant suggests that the series can be expressed as a telescoping series and provides a detailed summation approach leading to the conclusion of 2.
  • A third participant argues against the need for l'Hopital's rule in the limit evaluation, proposing an alternative method based on the properties of limits.
  • A later post reminds participants of forum rules regarding homework questions and the importance of not providing full answers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the proof method, as participants present different approaches and techniques. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the appropriateness of the methods used and the handling of homework questions.

Contextual Notes

Participants express differing views on the use of l'Hopital's rule and the handling of homework questions, indicating potential limitations in the clarity of the proof process and adherence to forum guidelines.

Imaxx
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While transforming the equation of the Basel problem, the following infinite series was obtained.

$$\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{n^2+3n+1}{n^4+2n^3+n^2}=2$$

However I couldn't think of a simple way to prove that.
Can anyone prove that this equation holds true?
 
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Your series can be put on the form of a telescope series and thereby summed up.
$$
\begin{align*}
\sum_{n=1}^\infty\frac{n^2+3n+1}{n^4+2n^3+n^2} &= \sum_{n=1}^\infty\frac{n^2+3n+1}{n^2(n+1)^2} \\
&= \lim_{N\rightarrow\infty}\sum_{n=1}^N\bigg\lbrace\frac{2n^2+3n}{(n+1)^2} - \frac{2(n-1)^2+3(n-1)}{n^2}\bigg\rbrace \\
&= \lim_{N\rightarrow\infty}\frac{2N^2+3N}{(N+1)^2} \\
&= 2,
\end{align*}
$$
where the last equality follows by successive use of l'Hopital's rule.
 
You don't need l'Hopital's rule here; just observe <br /> \frac{2N^2 + 3N}{(N + 1)^2} = \frac{N^2(2 + \frac 3N)}{N^2(1 + \frac1N)^2} = \frac{2 + \frac 3N}{(1 + \frac1N)^2} and the result follows from the proposition that the limit of a ratio is the ratio of the limits provided the limit of the denominator is not zero.
 
This was a post in Calc & Beyond HW
 
I like to take the chance and remind you of our rules:
  • please report homework questions in technical forums, instead of answering them
  • do not provide full answers, that doesn't help the OP to understand their problem, even in technical forums
  • do not open multiple threads on the same topic
  • homework questions (anyway where they have been posted) require some efforts to be shown from the OP. We are not a solution automaton. Our goal is to teach, not to solve.
This thread is closed.
 
  • Skeptical
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