Is My Taylor Polynomial for 1/(1-x^2) Correct?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the Taylor polynomial for the function 1/(1-x^2) of degree 2n+1 at 0. The original poster initially presents their answer and compares it with a textbook solution, questioning the correctness of their approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the Taylor polynomial using the geometric series formula but later realizes a misinterpretation of the function. Participants discuss the implications of this realization and whether further differentiation is necessary.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring the implications of the original poster's misunderstanding. Some guidance is offered regarding the Taylor series for related functions, and there is acknowledgment of the need to clarify the polynomial's degree and remainder term.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the function to be analyzed, as the original poster initially misstates it as 1/(1-x^2) instead of 1/(1+x^2). This misinterpretation influences the direction of the discussion.

holezch
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Homework Statement



The question asks me to write out a taylor polynomial for 1/(1-x^2)
of degree 2n+1 at 0.



The Attempt at a Solution



My answer was 1 + x^2 + x^4 + x^6 + ... + (x^4)/(1-x^2) which I just got from using hte geometric series formula. The textbook answer however is this:

1 - x^2 + x^4 - .... + (-1)^n x^2n

Am I wrong? I thought so, but I took out a graphing calculator, and the larger I make my polynomial degree, the closer it looks to 1/(1-x^2). So my answer must be correct?

thanks
 
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omg, silly me. The question was 1/(1 + x^2) , not 1 / ( 1- x^2 )
 
so should I just keep differentiating ? :S
 
If you know what the taylor series polynomial is for 1/(1-x) it's just a simple substitution
 
Office_Shredder said:
If you know what the taylor series polynomial is for 1/(1-x) it's just a simple substitution

right. that was very blind of me.. thanks! I also don't need to include the remainder term in my answer right? I just stop at 2n, since that's all they want the function to be equal up to
 

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