How to show this sum covereges

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the series \(\sum_{m=1}^N(\frac{1}{m^4}-\frac{1}{m^6})\). Participants explore various methods and theorems related to series convergence, particularly in the context of probability theory and the Kolmogorov Strong Law of Large Numbers (SLLN).

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for assistance in showing the convergence of the series, expressing uncertainty about their mathematical skills.
  • Another participant suggests performing basic algebra to simplify the series and compare it to a known convergent series, \(\sum \frac{1}{m^4}\).
  • Some participants note that both \(\sum \frac{1}{n^4}\) and \(\sum \frac{1}{n^6}\) converge, leading to the conclusion that \(\sum(\frac{1}{n^4}-\frac{1}{n^6})\) also converges, providing specific values for the sums.
  • A participant mentions a general criterion for convergence, stating that a series of the form \(\sum \frac{1}{n^p}\) converges if \(p > 1\), and references the integral test as a common proof method.
  • Another participant introduces a theorem regarding comparison tests for convergence, suggesting that if a known convergent series bounds the series in question, then the latter also converges.
  • There is a note that the series must be positive for the comparison theorem to apply, and a participant emphasizes the importance of understanding the convergence of \(\sum \frac{1}{n^2}\) in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the convergence of the series in question, but there are multiple approaches and methods discussed, indicating that the topic is still open to exploration and debate.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about their mathematical background, which may affect their understanding of the convergence proofs discussed. There is also a mention of the need to clarify assumptions regarding the positivity of the series for certain convergence tests.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals studying series convergence, particularly in the context of probability theory, as well as those looking to refine their mathematical reasoning skills.

zli034
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\sum_{m=1}^N(\frac{1}{m^4}-\frac{1}{m^6})

My math on sum series is very rusty, can anyone show me show this sum converges?

It is not geometric series, right?

Suddenly found out it is needed to show Kolmogorov SLLN of some random varianble.

Thanks in advance
 
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Have you done the basic algebra?
\frac{1}{m^4}- \frac{1}{m^6}= \frac{m^2}{m^6}- \frac{1}{s^6}= \frac{m^2- 1}{m^6}
Now "compare" that to 1/m^4 which converges.
 
Alternatively, one could note that Ʃ1/n4 and Ʃ1/n6 both converge, so Ʃ(1/n4-1/n6) converges (for good measure, it's equal to Ʃ1/n4 - Ʃ1/n6 = π4/90 - π6/945).
 
A. Bahat said:
Alternatively, one could note that Ʃ1/n4 and Ʃ1/n6 both converge, so Ʃ(1/n4-1/n6) converges (for good measure, it's equal to Ʃ1/n4 - Ʃ1/n6 = π4/90 - π6/945).

Why does Ʃ1/n4 not diverges? I have BS in biology, now I working with probability, only can troubleshoot math with you guys. Thanks
 
A series of the form Ʃ1/np converges if and only if p>1. There are several ways to prove this, the most common of which is probably the integral test.
 
A more general way to prove it converges is to use the theorem that if the infinite sum of f(n) converges and g(n) <= f(n) for all n, then g(n) converges.

You can use the theorem with 1/n^2, which converges. All you have to do is show that 1/n^2 > 1/n^4 - 1/n^6 for all n.
 
TylerH said:
A more general way to prove it converges is to use the theorem that if the infinite sum of f(n) converges and g(n) <= f(n) for all n, then g(n) converges.


*** IF...the series are positive, of course. ***


You can use the theorem with 1/n^2, which converges. All you have to do is show that 1/n^2 > 1/n^4 - 1/n^6 for all n.



Perhaps he/she doesn't know that \sum_{n=1}^\infty \frac{1}{n^2} converges, and if he's going to prove this he might as well prove and use

the more general answer by Bahat.

DonAntonio
 

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