Infinite product - the shortest question

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    Infinite Product
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of infinite products, specifically the notation and definition associated with them. Participants explore the relationship between infinite products and finite products, drawing on their understanding of infinite sums.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that the notation for an infinite product, represented as \(\Pi_{i=1}^{N} a_i\), is equivalent to multiplying a series of terms together, specifically \(a_1 a_2 a_3 ... a_{N-2}a_{N-1}a_{N}\).
  • Another participant confirms that this representation is indeed the definition of the product notation but notes that the example given does not represent an "infinite" product.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude for the clarification and humorously mentions the intention to correct a professor, indicating a light-hearted tone in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of the product notation, but there is a distinction made regarding the finite nature of the example provided, indicating some level of misunderstanding about infinite products.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not delve into the specific properties or implications of infinite products, nor does it address the mathematical rigor required for defining infinite products versus finite products.

tandoorichicken
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I just heard about the inifinite product, so using my knowledge of inifinite sum this is purely guessing.

[tex]\Pi_{i=1}^{N} a_i = a_1 a_2 a_3 ... a_{N-2}a_{N-1}a_{N}[/tex]

correct?
 
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Short answer: yes.
 
Yes, that is the definition of that symbol. What you show is, of course, not an "infinite" product.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
thanks halls and mathman. now i can go and correct my professor.

such a suck-up I know!
:biggrin:
 

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