Limit of sequence lim n (1-cos(2/n))

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the limit of the sequence as n approaches infinity for the expression involving the cosine function, specifically lim n (1 - cos(2/n)). The subject area pertains to calculus, particularly limits and trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore rewriting the expression using trigonometric identities, such as expressing 1 - cos(2/n) in terms of sine. There are discussions about the behavior of certain terms as n approaches infinity, including the application of L'Hospital's rule. Questions arise regarding the manipulation of terms and the implications of those manipulations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing alternative approaches and questioning the steps taken. Some guidance has been offered regarding rewriting parts of the expression, and there is a collaborative effort to clarify the reasoning behind the transformations being used.

Contextual Notes

Participants express urgency due to an impending exam, which may influence the depth of exploration and the types of questions being raised. There is also a mention of potential confusion regarding the handling of terms in the limit process.

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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



above picture !

Exam in 3 hours :( please help
 
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You can write
$$\begin{align}
1 - \cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right) = 2\left[\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{2}\cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right)\right]
&= 2\sin^2\left(\frac{1}{n}\right) \\
\end{align}$$
 
$$\frac 1 {\frac 1 n}$$doesn't go to 0 as ##n\to\infty##.

Another method is to use L'Hospital's rule on$$
\frac{1 - \cos{\frac 1 n}}{\frac 1 n}$$
 
jbunniii said:
You can write
$$\begin{align}
1 - \cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right) = 2\left[\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{2}\cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right)\right]
&= 2\sin^2\left(\frac{1}{n}\right) \\
\end{align}$$

where is 'n' gone?
 
LCKurtz said:
$$\frac 1 {\frac 1 n}$$doesn't go to 0 as ##n\to\infty##.

Another method is to use L'Hospital's rule on$$
\frac{1 - \cos{\frac 1 n}}{\frac 1 n}$$

thanks LCKurtz
 
izen said:
where is 'n' gone?
It didn't go anywhere. I was just suggesting how to rewrite the hard part. Now if we substitute back, we get
$$n\left[1 - \cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right)\right] = 2n \sin^2\left(\frac{1}{n}\right)$$
Can you see what to do now?
 
jbunniii said:
It didn't go anywhere. I was just suggesting how to rewrite the hard part. Now if we substitute back, we get
$$n\left[1 - \cos\left(\frac{2}{n}\right)\right] = 2n \sin^2\left(\frac{1}{n}\right)$$
Can you see what to do now?


Thanks jbunniii
 

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