Power Series (Which test can i use to determine divergence at the end points)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the convergence or divergence of the power series representation of the function f(-4x) = 1/(1+4x) at its endpoints, specifically x = -1/4. The user correctly identifies that the series diverges at this endpoint using the divergence test, as the limit of the series does not approach zero. Additionally, the user explores the geometric series test, noting that the series diverges when the common ratio r is equal to or greater than 1, confirming that the series diverges at x = -1/4.

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  • Knowledge of the divergence test for series
  • Concept of geometric series and its convergence criteria
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yeny
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Hello,

I was given f(-4x)= 1/(1+4x), and I used the geometric series to find the power series representation of this function. I then took the limit of (-4x)^k by using ratio test. The answer is abs. value of x. So -1/4<x<1/4

I then plugged in those end points to the series going from k=0 to infinity of (-4x)^k

here's where I'm stuck. How do I determine convergence/divergence of the endpoints?

When I tested x=-1/4, my series was k=0 to infinity of (1)^k, for that series, I wrote " Divergent by divergence test because lim as k --> infinity does not equal zero.

Is that an acceptabe answer? I also had another possible answer which was, Divergent by geometric series because r is less than or equal to 1"

Thank you so much for taking the time to look at this. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend =)
 
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"When I tested x=-1/4, my series was k=0 to infinity of (1)^k, for that series, I wrote " Divergent by divergence test because lim as k --> infinity does not equal zero."
Yes, that is completely valid

"Is that an acceptabe answer? I also had another possible answer which was, Divergent by geometric series because r is less than or equal to 1"
First, a geometric series is convergent for r< 1. Did you mean "divergent because r is larger than or equal to 1"? I would see no reason to include the "larger than". You are specifically talking about r= 1.

Or, simply, the partial sums are S_n= \sum_{k= 1}^n 1^k= n. What is the limit of that as n goes to infinity.
 
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