Proof of 1+z+Z^2+...+z^n=(1-z^(n+1))/(1-z)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the formula for the sum of a geometric series, specifically the expression \(1 + z + z^2 + \ldots + z^n = \frac{1 - z^{n+1}}{1 - z}\). Participants explore different methods of proof, including verification and induction.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests help to prove the formula for the sum of a geometric series.
  • Another participant suggests that the formula can be verified by manipulating the equation \(z^{n+1} - 1 = (z - 1)(1 + z + z^2 + \ldots + z^n)\).
  • A third participant expresses uncertainty about how to proceed with the proof.
  • A later reply proposes using mathematical induction as a method to prove the formula, outlining the base case and inductive step.
  • The inductive proof is presented, showing that if the formula holds for \(n\), it also holds for \(n + 1\).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the preferred method of proof, with some favoring verification and others advocating for induction. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which method is superior or more appropriate.

Contextual Notes

Some participants rely on specific assumptions about the values of \(z\) and the conditions under which the formula is valid, but these assumptions are not explicitly stated or agreed upon.

shen07
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Hello Guys once again need your help for a proof.

Prove

1+z+Z^2+...+z^n=(1-z^(n+1))/(1-z);)
 
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shen07 said:
Hello Guys once again need your help for a proof.

Prove

1+z+Z^2+...+z^n=(1-z^(n+1))/(1-z);)

It is immediate to verify that is... $\displaystyle z^{n+1} - 1 = (z-1)\ (1 + z + z^{2} + ... + z^{n})\ (1)$

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
yeah but how do we go about proving it..??
 
You can use a proof by induction , even though the way chisigma suggested suffices

$$\tag{1}1+z+z^2+ \cdots +z^n = \frac{z^{n+1}-1}{z-1}$$

Base case

is $$n = 0 $$ we get $1$

Inductive step

Assume that (1) is correct and want to prove

$$\tag{2}1+z+z^2+ \cdots +z^{n+1} = \frac{z^{n+2}-1}{z-1}$$

From (1)

$$1+z+z^2+ \cdots +z^n+z^{n+1}= \frac{z^{n+1}-1}{z-1}+z^{n+1}= \frac{z^{n+2}-1}{z-1}$$

Hence (2) is satisfied which completes the proof $\square $.
 
Last edited:

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