Infinite Series Doubt: Last Step Explained

RoughRoad · Aug 5, 2011

On the provided attachment, I have problem understanding the last step of the 1st sum of that page. Can anyone explain to me what is being done after the second-last step?

Citan Uzuki · Aug 5, 2011

They're using the formula for the sum of a finite geometric series:
[tex]\sum_{k=1}^{n}r^k = r\frac{1-r^n}{1-r}[/tex]

RoughRoad · Aug 5, 2011

How is it a finite series? Aren't the term going till infinity? Sorry but I am actually a litle weak on my basics.

Citan Uzuki · Aug 5, 2011

The term s_n is the sum of just the first n terms, which is a finite series. The value of the infinite series is obtained by taking the limit of s_n as n→∞.

RoughRoad · Aug 5, 2011

Thanks! :-)

Infinite Series Doubt: Last Step Explained

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Infinite Series Doubt: Last Step Explained

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