Power Series Convergence Assistance

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SUMMARY

The power series $$\sum_{n = 2}^\infty \frac{(n-1)(-1)^n}{n!}$$ converges to the value $$1 - 2\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)$$. The Ratio Test confirms convergence as the limit approaches zero, indicating that the series converges. The series can be manipulated using the known Maclaurin series for $$e^{-1}$$, allowing for the simplification of terms to derive the final result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of power series and convergence tests, specifically the Ratio Test.
  • Familiarity with Maclaurin series and their applications.
  • Knowledge of factorial notation and its role in series expansion.
  • Basic algebraic manipulation of series and summation notation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Ratio Test in detail to understand its application in series convergence.
  • Explore the Maclaurin series for exponential functions, particularly $$e^{-x}$$.
  • Learn about manipulating series to derive new results from known series.
  • Investigate other convergence tests such as the Root Test and their comparative effectiveness.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students studying calculus, and anyone interested in series convergence and manipulation techniques.

theCalc
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The power series

$$\sum_{n = 2}^\infty \frac{(n-1)(-1)^n}{n!}$$

converges to what number?

So far, I've tried using the Ratio Test and the limit as n approaches infinity equals $0$. Also since $L<1$, the power series converges by the Ratio Test.
 
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Maclaurin tells us:

$$e^{-1}=\sum_{n=0}^{\infty}\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}$$

You can write the given series in terms of the above. :)
 
I'm a bit lost and confused as to how I would manipulate the series, could you explain what steps would I need to take? Thanks.
 
Well, I think the first thing I would do is write:

$$e^{-1}=1-1+\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}=\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}$$

Next, let's write:

$$S=\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n(n-1)}{n!}\right)=\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^nn}{n!}\right)-\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)$$

$$S=\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{(n-1)!}\right)-\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)$$

$$S=\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^{n+1}}{n!}\right)-\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)$$

$$S=1-\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)-\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)$$

$$S=1-2\sum_{n=2}^{\infty}\left(\frac{(-1)^n}{n!}\right)=\,?$$
 

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