Infinite series sum is positive

In summary, the conversation discusses methods of proving that the infinite sum of an alternating series is positive, given certain conditions. It is noted that for x≤1, the sum is easily seen to be positive, but for x>1, the sum must be proven using the Ratio Test. The conversation also clarifies that the condition of the function being decreasing is not necessary for an alternating series to converge. The main focus is on proving the positive nature of the total sum.
  • #1
myname1234
2
0
I was trying to prove the following but couldn't succeed. Is there a systematic methods to prove that the following infinite sum is positive? (alternating series)

sum from n = 0 to ∞ of ((-1)[itex]^{n}[/itex]* x[itex]^{n+z}[/itex]) / (n+z)!

conditions x≥0 and z≥1


note: when x≤1, we can directly see that s[itex]_{n}[/itex]- s[itex]_{n+1}[/itex] is positive for n ≥ 0. So the sum is positive.

However when x>1, s[itex]_{n}[/itex] = x[itex]^{n+z}[/itex] / (n+z)! monotonically increases first and then monotonically decreases to zero.
 
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  • #2
Conditions for the sum of alternating series are:
1. alternating
2. ingnoring signs the function is decreasing
3. the limit of the f(x) as x approaches infinity is 0.

Just by looking at the problem you don't use the alternating series test. You have to use the Ratio Test and find the interval of convergence.
 
  • #3
sorry, but i am not looking whether the series is converging or not. I know it converges.

Also your condition number 2 is not necessary for an alternating series to converge.

I am interested in proving that the total sum is positive.
 

FAQ: Infinite series sum is positive

1. What is an infinite series sum?

An infinite series sum is a mathematical calculation that involves adding an infinite number of terms together. Each term in the series is usually related to the previous term by a certain pattern or formula. Examples of infinite series sums include geometric series, harmonic series, and power series.

2. How can an infinite series sum be positive?

An infinite series sum can be positive if the terms in the series are all positive and the series converges to a finite value. This means that as more and more terms are added, the sum gets closer and closer to a specific number. If this number is positive, then the infinite series sum will also be positive.

3. Can an infinite series sum be both positive and negative?

No, an infinite series sum cannot be both positive and negative. The sum will either be positive, negative, or equal to zero. This depends on the values and pattern of the terms in the series. If the series alternates between positive and negative terms, the sum may converge to zero. However, if the terms are all positive or all negative, the sum will converge to a positive or negative value, respectively.

4. What is the importance of knowing if an infinite series sum is positive?

Knowing whether an infinite series sum is positive can help in understanding the behavior and properties of the series. It can also be useful in solving various mathematical problems and applications, such as calculating probabilities, evaluating integrals, and approximating values of various functions.

5. How can we determine if an infinite series sum is positive?

To determine if an infinite series sum is positive, we can use various convergence tests such as the ratio test, root test, integral test, and comparison test. These tests examine the behavior of the terms in the series and determine if the series converges to a finite value. If the series converges and the value is positive, then the infinite series sum will also be positive.

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