Limit of Sequence: Determine m for Convergence

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of the series ∑(cos(m*n*π)/(n+1)), where m is a fixed integer. Participants are exploring the conditions under which this series converges, particularly focusing on the role of the integer m.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant attempts to relate the series to the alternating series test, expressing uncertainty about how m influences convergence. Others clarify that the series is indeed a series, not a sequence, and discuss the implications of the nth-term test and the squeeze theorem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and corrections. Some guidance has been offered regarding the convergence criteria, but there is no explicit consensus on the values of m that ensure convergence. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that m must be an integer, and there is mention of different convergence tests that have been learned, indicating varying levels of familiarity with the concepts involved.

Tomp
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Homework Statement

infƩn=0 cos(m*n*pi)/(n+1)
where m is a fixed integer. Determine the values of m, such that the series converges. Explain your reasoning in detail.

The attempt at a solution

I have figured out that cos(n*pi)/(n+1) can be represented as ((-1)^(n+1))/(n+1) (as it bounces back and forth from -1 to 1) and by the alternating series test, this converges.

However, I am unsure how to explain what m would do this.

I believe as m is an integer the cos(n*m*pi) term can't equal zero (need m = 1/2 and n=1 ect) so no matter what value m is, the sequence would converge, as the cos term can't be greater than -1 or 1? so m is any real integer (bit like n, though n is positive). Is this a bit trivial?
***And sorry, I understand this is a Series not a sequence***
 
Last edited:
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Hi Tomp
[tex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=0}\frac{\cos (mn\pi)}{n+1}[/tex] is actually a series, not a sequence.
 
Last edited:
sharks said:
Hi Tomp
[tex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=0}\frac{\cos (mn\pi)}{n+1}[/tex] is actually a series, not a sequence.

yeah sorry, can't change the heading. hoping people would pick up on my correction in my edit
 
You could prove that the limit has to be zero if the series converges, according to the nth-term test.

Try the squeeze theorem to show that the sequence is equal to zero, then solve for m.

I get [itex]m=\frac{1}{n\pi}[/itex]
 
sharks said:
You could prove that the limit has to be zero if the series converges, according to the nth-term test.

Try the squeeze theorem to show that the sequence is equal to zero, then solve for m.

I get [itex]m=\frac{1}{n\pi}[/itex]

I have never learned about the squeeze theorem sorry. We have learned about the alternating, ration, comparison tests.

And m has to be an integer :/
 

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