Power series expansions - which is imossible

But if a is any other number, it is not centered around a. In summary, the question is asking which of the given functions can be expanded in powers of x, evaluated at a specific value, and still have a defined result. The answer is A, as x=0 would result in an imaginary number for the function \sqrt{x-1}.
  • #1
razored
173
0
Which of the following expansions is impossible?

a [tex]\sqrt{x-1}[/tex] in powers of x

b [tex]\sqrt{x+1}[/tex] in powers of x

c [tex]ln(x)[/tex] in powers of (x-1)

d [tex]tanx[/tex] in powers of (x-\pi / 4 )

e [tex]ln(1-x)[/tex] in powers of x

What are htey asking and how do i do this? the answer is A by the way
 
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  • #2


"In powers of (x - a)" means that x will be close to a, and that the function and its derivatives will be evaluated at a. Which of the functions above are defined at a (which will be 0, or 1, or pi/4 in these problems)?
 
  • #3


So for a, x=0, and that is an imaginary result. Is this the same thing as saying it is centered around a?

Thank you.
 
  • #4


razored said:
So for a, x=0, and that is an imaginary result. Is this the same thing as saying it is centered around a?

Thank you.
If a = 0, it is.
 

What is a power series expansion?

A power series expansion is a representation of a mathematical function as an infinite sum of powers of a variable. It is useful for approximating functions and solving differential equations.

Why is it impossible to have a power series expansion for every function?

Some functions, such as those with singularities or discontinuities, do not have a power series expansion. Additionally, some functions may require an infinite number of terms in the expansion, making it impossible to compute.

What is the radius of convergence for a power series expansion?

The radius of convergence is the distance from the center of the power series where the series converges. It can be calculated using the ratio test.

Can a power series expansion be used to approximate any function?

No, a power series expansion can only approximate functions within its radius of convergence. Outside of this radius, the approximation may not be accurate.

How can I determine the radius of convergence for a specific function?

The radius of convergence can be determined by finding the interval of convergence for the power series. This can be done using various convergence tests, such as the ratio test or the root test.

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