Proving the Convergence of (1+1/n)^n Sequence | Help Needed!

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the convergence of the sequence \( a_n = (1 + \frac{1}{n})^n \) and establishing that it is bounded above by 4. Participants explore various methods of proof, including the use of alternative sequences and the properties of the number \( e \).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a proof that \( a_n \) is bounded above by 4 and converges, specifically looking for an alternative method involving a helper sequence.
  • Another participant suggests examining the power series for \( e \) as a potential approach.
  • A participant defines \( e \) as the limit of \( a_n \) as \( n \) approaches infinity, noting that \( a_n \) is less than 4 for all \( n \) and proposes showing that \( a_n \) is monotonically increasing.
  • Another participant expresses a desire to use a specific helper sequence \( b_n = (1 + \frac{1}{(n^2-1)})^n \) to demonstrate that \( a_n < b_n \) for all \( n \).
  • One participant offers an alternative helper sequence \( b_n = (1 + \frac{1.002}{n})^n \), which is larger than \( a_n \) term by term and also bounded by 4.
  • Another participant mentions the series expansion of \( e \) and its dominance over the binomial expansion of \( (1 + \frac{1}{n})^n \).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods and ideas for proving the properties of the sequence \( a_n \), but there is no consensus on a single approach or proof method. Multiple competing views and methods remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the need for specific conditions or characteristics of the sequences involved, but these aspects remain unresolved. The discussion includes various assumptions about the behavior of the sequences and their limits.

sutupidmath
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sequence question. Need help!

i would like to know where could i find the proof that the sequence

a_n=(1+1/n)^n bounded (upper bounded) by 4.

or in general that this sequence is a convergent one??

i know the proof by expanding it using binominal formula(Newton formula), but i am looking for another proof, by using some other helping sequence, and than to tell that this sequence a_n=(1+1/n)^n is smaller than every term of the helpin sequence?

any help would be appreciated.
 
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Have you looked at the power series for e?
 
mathman said:
Have you looked at the power series for e?

do u mean expressing e using taylor formula??
 
I Think that's what he meant, but here's a definition of e that will help :)

[tex]e=\lim_{n\to\infty} (1+\frac{1}{n})^n[/tex].
So as n goes to infinity, a_n goes to e, which is less than 4.

However, you need to know that a_n < 4 for ANY n. You know a_1=2.

So to make sure for any positive integer n, 2<a_n<4, we show that that a_n is an monotonically increasing function for positive n.
 
Last edited:
Gib Z said:
I Think that's what he meant, but here's a definition of e that will help :)

[tex]e=\lim_{n\to\infty} (1+\frac{1}{n})^n[/tex].
So as n goes to infinity, a_n goes to e, which is less than 4.

However, you need to know that a_n < 4 for ANY n. You know a_1=2.

So to make sure for any positive integer n, 2<a_n<4, we show that that a_n is an monotonically increasing function for positive n.

Yes, i do know this. But what i am looking for is a proof(another proof, couse i already know two of them) using another sequence that will look something like this

b_n=(1+1/(n^2-1))^n

and than to show that for every n, a_n, is less than b_n, for every n.(a_n<b_n)

because i know that 2<e<3<4 .

because i need to prove it this whay(using another helping sequence which charasteristics we know).

thnx anywhay
 
Well I'm not sure about the form of your b_n, but here's another b_n that's larger term by term and is bounded by 4 as well.

[tex]e^x = \lim_{n\to\infty} (1+\frac{x}{n})^n[/tex]
So a b_n that is larger term by term and bounded we be say..b_n = (1 + 1.002/n)^n? Any value of or less than ln 4 will do in place of 1.002.
 
e=1+1/1!+1/2!+1/3!+... which dominates the binomial expansion of (1+1/n)n
 
mathman said:
e=1+1/1!+1/2!+1/3!+... which dominates the binomial expansion of (1+1/n)n


How does this help, to prove what i am looking for?
 

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