Radius of Convergence of power series anx^n^2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the radii of convergence for power series, specifically the series \(\sum a_n x^{n^2}\) and \(\sum a_n x^{2n}\), given a known radius of convergence \(R\) for the series \(\sum a_n x^n\). Participants explore the implications of the radius of convergence theorem and the root test in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the root test and the behavior of limits as \(n\) approaches infinity. There is an exploration of how to express the radii of convergence in terms of \(R\) and the implications of different forms of the series.

Discussion Status

Some participants express doubts about the initial assumptions and calculations, particularly regarding the interpretation of limits and the conditions for convergence. Others suggest alternative approaches, such as applying the root test to specific cases, indicating a productive exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is some uncertainty regarding the notation and definitions used, with participants questioning whether the original series was correctly stated. Additionally, there is a discussion about the formalism of the arguments presented and the need for clarity in demonstrating convergence conditions.

looserlama
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Homework Statement



Suppose that the power series \sumanxn for n=0 to n=∞ has a radius of convergence R\in(0,∞). Find the radii of convergence of the series \sumanxn2 from n=0 to n=∞ and \sumanx2n.

Homework Equations



Radius of convergence theorem:

R = 1/limsup|an|1/n is the radius of convergence of the series \suman(x-c)n

Root Test:

Let L = limsup|an|1/n, then

If L<1, the series \suman converges absolutely
If L>1, the series diverges
If L=1, then the test is inconclusive.

The Attempt at a Solution



So we know that limsup|an|1/n = \frac{1}{R}.

So for the second series (\sumanx2n) I think this is easy:

limsup|an|1/n|x|2n/n = limsup|an|1/n|x|2 = |x|2/R < 1 So that the series converges

Therefore, |x|2 < R \Rightarrow |x| < \sqrt{R}

So R2 = \sqrt{R} (Where R2 is the r.o.c. of the second series)So I tried doing this with the first series, but it doesn't work.

So then I showed that limsup|bn|1/n2 < 1 implies that \sumbn from n=0 to n=∞ converges absolutely (basically a modification of the root test)

So then if I use this for the first series:

limsup|an|1/n2|x|n2/n2 = limsup|an|1/n2|x| < 1 So that it converges.

Therefore |x| < 1/limsup|an|1/n2 = R1

But I'm assuming they want it in terms of R, so this doesn't really work...

I feel like I'm close I'm just missing something?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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I'm a little bit dubious about some this, and I think you meant your initial series to be a_n*x^n, not a_n*x^(n^2), but let's assume all of your limits exist. In the x^(2n) case you got |x|^2<R. In the x^(n^2) case you will get limit n->infinity |x|^n<R. What does that tell you about radius of convergence?
 
How can we have |x|^n <R if n->infinity?

Wouldn't it be 1/R*limsup|x|^n <1 ?

So limsup|x|^n < R and wouldn't that only be true for |x| < 1 ?
 
looserlama said:
How can we have |x|^n <R if n->infinity?

Wouldn't it be 1/R*limsup|x|^n <1 ?

So limsup|x|^n < R and wouldn't that only be true for |x| < 1 ?

Yes, I think you need |x|<1.
 
Oh ok, it just doesn't seem like a very formal way of showing it. Is there not a better way of doing it?
 
Pick a number b such that |b|<1 and apply the root test to a_{n} b^{n^2}. Now do the same for |b|>1.
 

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