Power Series Expansion for 1/1+x

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the power series expansion for the function 1/(1+x) using the known geometric series sum for 1/(1-x). Participants explore the transition from one series to another and discuss related power series expansions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the power series for 1/(1+x) based on the geometric series for 1/(1-x). Some participants question how to convert the series from one form to the other.

Discussion Status

Participants have engaged in exploring the problem, with some expressing realization about the simplicity of the task. Others have introduced related problems, such as finding the power series for 3/(2-x), leading to further discussion and attempts at clarification.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the correct setup for the power series, particularly in relation to the convergence intervals and the manipulation of series terms. Some participants also mention the need to clarify whether the expression intended was 3/(2-x) or 3/2 - x.

andrey21
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Given that the sum of the geometric series is:

1+x+x^(2)+x^(3)+x^(4)...=1/1-x for -1<x<1

Find power series for

1/1+x

Not to sure where to start, any help would be great
 
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hi andrey21! :smile:

(try using the X2 icon just above the Reply box :wink:)
andrey21 said:
1+x+x^(2)+x^(3)+x^(4)...=1/1-x for -1<x<1

come on … how would you convert 1/1-x to 1/1+x ? :wink:
 
:smile: I realized after posting the question how easy it actally is. I do have a slightly harder one I am having trouble with:

Find the power series of:

3/2-x

Any help would be great
 
andrey21 said:
:smile: I realized after posting the question how easy it actally is.

he he :biggrin:
3/2-x

3/2 1/(1- x/2) :wink:
 
andrey21 said:
:smile: I realized after posting the question how easy it actally is. I do have a slightly harder one I am having trouble with:

Find the power series of:

3/2-x
This one is very easy. The power series of 3/2 - x is... 3/2 - x.

On the offchance that you really meant 3/(2 - x), see tiny-tim's post.
 
Ok I know this thread hasn't been replied to in a while but here is my answer: I wanted the power expansion for the following:

3/(2-x) = 3/2 + 3/2x + 9/4 x^2 + 27/8 x^3 + 81/16 x^4 + ...

Is this correct??
 
No, as you see from the expression that tiny-tim gave you then x can go from -2 to 2, if you try to put x = 1 the left hand side gives you 3, but just 3/2 + 3/2x gives 3 for x = 1, and then your left with all the rest which will then give more then 3 and therefore not a correct expansion.

What is wrong in your series is that when you create it you have to leave the 3/2 outside the 1/(1-x/2), expand the 1/(1-x/2) using the power series for 1/(1-x) and put x/2 in all the places where there is x in the power series, then multiply 3/2 into the series.
 
Ok here is my revised solution:

Expansion of 1/(1-x/2) = 1+ x/2 + x2/4 + x3/8 +...

Now multiplying by 3/2 gives:

3/2 + 3x/4 + 3x2/8 + 3x3/16 + ...
 
That should be correct.
 
  • #10
Thanks ojs
 

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