Finding Power Series Representation for f(x) and Interval of Convergence

In summary, to find the power series representation for f(x)=x/(x^2-3x+2), the first step is to separate it into partial fractions 2/(x-2) - 1/(x-1). Then, using the formula for the power series representation of 1/(1-x), the two power series can be combined to get the desired representation. The interval of convergence will be determined by the radius of convergence of the combined series.
  • #1
chupe
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Homework Statement


Find the power series representation for the function f(x)=x/(x^2-3x+2) and determine the interval of convergence.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


First I separate into partial fractions 2/(x-2) - 1/(x-1)

2/(x-2) = sum n=0 to infinity (x/2)^n
1/(x-1) = sum n=0 to infinity (x)^n

Now I just don't know how to make them one power series representation.
 
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  • #2
Temporarily, let x = 2u and add the two power series together. You will need to find the pattern of the coefficients for the general term. You can always switch back to using x as a variable at the end. (There may be something more clever to use, but I'm juggling something else just now...)

Watch out, by the way: 1 + x + x2 + ... is 1/(1 - x) .

EDIT: thought about this a bit more -- the cleaner way to do this is to write the [itex](\frac{x}{2})^{n}[/itex] terms as [itex]\frac{x^{n}}{2^{n}}[/itex] . You will still have a little work on sorting out the general term for the single series representation.
 
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What is a power series representation?

A power series representation is a type of mathematical series that is used to represent a function. It is an infinite sum of terms, where each term is a constant multiplied by a variable raised to a power.

How do you find the power series representation for a function?

To find the power series representation for a function, you need to use the Taylor series expansion. This involves finding the derivatives of the function at a specific point and plugging them into the formula for a Taylor series. The resulting series is the power series representation for the function.

What is the interval of convergence for a power series?

The interval of convergence is the range of values for the variable in the power series where the series will converge to the original function. It is typically denoted by a range of values for the variable, such as -R < x < R, where R is the radius of convergence.

How do you determine the interval of convergence for a power series?

The interval of convergence can be determined by using the ratio test or the root test. These tests involve taking the limit of the ratio or root of consecutive terms in the series. If the limit is less than 1, the series will converge, and the range of values will be the interval of convergence.

Why is finding the power series representation and interval of convergence important?

Finding the power series representation and interval of convergence allows us to approximate a function with a simpler series. This can be useful for solving differential equations, calculating integrals, and other mathematical applications. It also helps us understand the behavior and properties of a function in a specific range of values.

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