Interval Convergence & Function of Alternating Series (-1/3)^n (x-2)^n

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the series defined by the expression (-1/3)^n (x-2)^n, specifically focusing on finding the interval of convergence and the function to which the series converges within that interval. The subject area includes series convergence, particularly alternating series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the nature of the series, questioning whether it is indeed an alternating series for all values of x. There are discussions about using partial sums and the application of convergence tests, including the Ratio Test and other relevant theorems.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants raising questions about the appropriate tests for convergence and the conditions under which the series behaves as an alternating series. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of the Ratio Test, but no consensus has been reached on the interval of convergence or the function associated with the series.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of confusion regarding the nature of the series for different values of x, and participants are considering various convergence tests without a complete resolution of the problem.

Autunmsky
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Consider the series (to infinity; n=0) (-1/3)^n (x-2)^n

Find the intercal of convergence for this series.

To what function does this series converage over this interval?


I know this is an alternating series...I just don't know how to go about it. Thanks for you help.

** Should I do this like a partial sum? Do I just keep multiplying them together until they reach Zero *because then it has converaged? **
 
Last edited:
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Autunmsky said:
Consider the series (to infinity; n=0) (-1/3)^n (x-2)^n

Find the intercal of convergence for this series.

To what function does this series converage over this interval?


I know this is an alternating series...I just don't know how to go about it. Thanks for you help.

** Should I do this like a partial sum? Do I just keep multiplying them together until they reach Zero *because then it has converaged? **
It might be helpful to write this series as
[tex]\sum_{n = 0}^{\infty} (-1)^n \left(\frac{x - 2}{3}\right)^n[/tex]

For some values of x, this is an alternating series, but for others, it's not.
What theorems do you know for determining whether a series converges?
 
a [tex]_{n+1}[/tex][tex]\leq[/tex] for all n

lim[tex]_{n\rightarrow\infty}[/tex] a[tex]_{n}[/tex] = 0

**sorry those are supposed to be lower subscripts**
 
You're still thinking that this is an alternating series. For some values of x (such as x = 0), it's NOT an alternating series.

Do you know any tests other than the alternating series test?
 
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Ratio Test so...lim |a [tex]_{<span style="font-size: 9px">n+1}</span>[/tex]| / |a[tex]_{<span style="font-size: 9px">n}</span>[/tex]|
 
OK, so what do you get if you use the Ratio Test?
 

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