Root and Ratio tests Inconclusive

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding examples of divergent and convergent infinite series of positive numbers that satisfy specific limit properties related to the ratio and root tests. The original poster seeks guidance on identifying a convergent series with the same limit characteristics as a known divergent series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster provides a trivial example of a divergent series and expresses uncertainty in finding a suitable convergent series. They inquire about hints and guidance for their search.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hints and examples, including a suggestion related to the behavior of n^(1/n) as n approaches infinity. The conversation reflects a mix of exploration and sharing of ideas without reaching a consensus on the convergent series.

Contextual Notes

The original poster requests not to provide a specific convergent series, indicating a desire to engage in the problem-solving process rather than receiving direct answers.

mattmns
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Here is the question in the book:
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Give an example of a divergent infinite series of positive numbers [itex]a_{n}[/itex] such that [itex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}a_{n+1}/a_{n} = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}a_{n}^{1/n} = 1[/itex] and an example of a convergent infinite series of positive numbers with the same property.
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For the divergent series I gave a somewhat trivial example. The series: 1+1+1+1+1+... which is certainly divergent and has the necessary limit properties.

For the convergent series though I am a little clueless. What should I be looking for. I know that the nth root of the "last" term should be 1, and also the "last" term should be approaching 0, but I just can't seem to get anything to satisfy both. Please don't post such a series, but instead if you could give some hints as to how I should go about finding one, and maybe other things that I should know when looking for such a sequence. Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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hint: n^(1/n)-->1
 
[itex]\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} 1/n^2[/itex] converges and has the properties. Thanks.

edit... Using your hint again, I could use [itex]\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} 1/n[/itex] as the divergent series with the desired properties which is probably a little nicer than my lame example :smile:
 
Last edited:
Nice.

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