Sequences in lp spaces (Functional Analysis)

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A sequence that converges to zero but is not in any lp space for 1 ≤ p < ∞ is proposed as 1/ln(n+1). The convergence to zero is established since ln(n+1) approaches infinity as n increases. Attempts to demonstrate that the series of (1/ln(n+1))^p does not converge involved integration tests and comparisons to the harmonic series. The Cauchy condensation test is highlighted as a useful method for analyzing the convergence of sequences involving logarithmic terms. The discussion concludes with appreciation for the effectiveness of this test in resolving the problem.
just.so
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[SOLVED] Sequences in lp spaces... (Functional Analysis)

Homework Statement


Find a sequence which converges to zero but is not in any lp space where 1<=p<infinity.


Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution


I strongly suspect 1/ln(n+1) is a solution.

Since ln(n+1) -> infinity as n -> infinity, we have 1/ln(n+1) -> 0 as n-> infinity.

I attempted using the integration test to show that partial sums for the sequence (1/ln(n+1))^p do not converge, but integrating 1/ln(n) became a bit problematic!

Attempt two was to show that each successive term in the sequence {(1/ln(n+1))^p} is larger than each successive term in some tail of the harmonic sequence.

i.e. There exists m such that
(1/ln(2))^p >= 1/(m+0) or m >= (ln(2))^p
(1/ln(3))^p >= 1/(m+1) or m >= (ln(3))^p - 1
(1/ln(4))^p >= 1/(m+2) or m >= (ln(4))^p - 2
.
.
.
In general for such an m to exist, m >= (ln(x+2))^p - x

And therefore I need to show that this right hand side is bounded above. I suspect this is true, and with a lot of hand waving can convince myself that the "ln" part of the RHS is "stronger" than the "^p" part and thus (ln(x+2))^p will eventually "slow down enough" so as to be less than x for large enough values of x.

But my log work leaves a little to be desired and I can't even prove there is a solution to the equation (ln(x+2))^p = x.

Any help much appreciated!


Justin
 
Last edited:
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Never mind. :x
 
There is a sweet test when it comes to series with logarithm in the argument. It says if a sequence a_n is decreasing and non-negative, then the series of a_n converges if and only if the series of 2^n*a_{2^n} does.

So here,

a_n=\frac{1}{\ln(n)^p}

and so

2^na_{2^n} = \frac{2^n}{n^p\ln(2)^p}

It's called the Cauchy condensation test: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cauchy_condensation_test
 
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That IS sweet!

A gazillion thanks!

J
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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