Real analysis: Sequences question

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a sequence \(X_n\) that is bounded and has a specific condition relating the differences of its terms. The goal is to prove that this sequence is convergent.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to establish that \(X_n\) is a Cauchy sequence but expresses uncertainty in their approach. They consider manipulating the terms of the sequence and exploring telescoping sums.
  • Some participants suggest factoring the expression involving \(X^2_{n+1} - X^2_n\) and finding an upper bound for it.
  • Others discuss iterating the inequality to derive a relationship between the terms of the sequence, while expressing uncertainty about the correctness of their reasoning.
  • There are suggestions to apply the triangle inequality and to consider the sequence of partial sums for bounding.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of the problem statement, particularly the boundedness of the sequence and the specific inequality provided. There is a noted difficulty in progressing through the attempts made so far.

jinbaw
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Homework Statement


If Xn is bounded by 2, and [tex]|X_{n+2} - X_{n+1}| \leq \frac{|X^2_{n+1} - X^2_n|}{8}[/tex], prove that Xn is a convergent sequence.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I believe the solution lies in proving Xn a Cauchy sequence, but I'm not sure how to work it out. I considered |Xn - Xm| adding and subtracting the terms between m and n but i got stuck.
I also tried to check for telescoping, with no luck.
 
Last edited:
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Factor [tex]X^2_{n+1} - X^2_n[/tex].

Then get an upper bound for [tex]\frac{|X^2_{n+1} - X^2_n|}{8}[/tex].
 
[tex] \frac{|X^2_{n+1} - X^2_n|}{8} = \frac{|(X_{n+1} + X_n)(X_{n+1} - X_n)|}{8} \leq \frac{|X_{n+1} - X_n|}{2}[/tex]

Iterating, I reached [tex]|X_{n+2} - X_ {n+1}| \leq \frac{|X_2 - X_1|}{2^n}[/tex]
I'm not sure if I continued in the right track.. but I'm stuck.
Thanks for your input.
 
Now go back to trying to show the sequence is Cauchy by adding and subtracting terms in |xn-xm|. Use the triangle inequality.
 
Or could even look at the sequence of partial sums, getting it bounded above.
 

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