How to show a series of functions is not uniformly convergent

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining whether a series of functions, specifically \(\sum \sin( \frac{x}{n^2})\), is not uniformly convergent over the interval of all \(x\). The original poster expresses familiarity with the concept of uniform convergence but seeks clarity on how to rigorously demonstrate non-uniform convergence, particularly when existing tests do not provide explicit conditions for this scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply comparison tests to show uniform convergence but struggles with the requirement for a constant comparison series. They question how to connect their findings to non-uniform convergence. Another participant raises a general inquiry about proving non-uniform convergence, while a third post references an external link that may provide additional context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different angles on the topic. The original poster has articulated their confusion and seeks guidance, while others contribute by asking similar questions or providing external resources. There is no explicit consensus yet, but the dialogue is productive.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes complications arising from the interval being checked, particularly concerning endpoints where the series of functions may be undefined. This adds a layer of complexity to the discussion about uniform convergence.

gregmoon
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Ok, I chose to ask about ways to determine if a series of functions is NOT uniformly convergent because I think that would best answer the overall difficulties I have with uniform convergence. I have a good idea of what uniform convergence is, I can give the definition, and if the problem is uniformly convergent there is a good chance I can show it. But if the problem is not then I don't think that "None of my tests work" is a rigorous mathematical argument to deny uniform convergence and none of the tests I have give explicit conditions for non-uniformity.

Homework Statement


Here is just one example. Show whether [tex]\sum \sin( \frac{x}{n^2})[/tex] converges uniformly for the interval "All x".

Homework Equations


The first time around I showed that this series was convergent by comparing it to [tex]\sum\frac{x}{n^2}[/tex] and was thus able to show that it was absolutely convergent for all x.
[tex]\sum \left|\sin( \frac{x}{n^2})\right|\leq\sum\frac{x}{n^2}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


Now that I want to prove uniform convergence I'm wanting to do the same thing except I need to make the comparing series not dependent on x, make it a series of constants (which is essentialy the Weierstrass test, correct?). Unfortunately the way I see it, no matter what x I choose to make [tex]\sum\frac{x}{n^2}[/tex] a constant, there will always be a greater x that will ruin the M-Test inequality. It is the connection from here to non-uniform convergence which I can't seem to make.

I appreciate any helpful comments. I also have a few other confusions which seem to result from the interval to be checked. Particularly when it is an open interval where the series of functions is undefined at either endpoint.
 
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Oh I want to ask the same thing. How can I prove something is *not* uniformly convergent?

Too bad there's no answer here. :confused:
 
Limn→∞sin(x/n2) = 0 for any fixed x.

Given any n can you find x s.t. |sin(x/n2) - 0| > 1/2? I'm letting epsilon = 1/2.
 

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