Series Convergence Test for 2 < x < 10: Value of X in a Series

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the convergence of a series defined for the range 2 < x < 10, specifically examining the series SUM\frac{(x-6)^n}{4^n\sqrt{n}}. Participants are exploring the behavior of the series at the endpoints of this interval.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of different convergence tests for the series at the endpoints, questioning why distinct tests are necessary for each case. There is also a focus on the manipulation of exponents and the implications of these manipulations on convergence.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of the series at different values of x. Some guidance has been offered regarding the application of the p-test and the alternating series test, but no consensus has been reached on the overall understanding of the series behavior.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through potential misunderstandings regarding the convergence tests and the handling of exponents in the series expressions. There is an acknowledgment of differing series forms at specific values of x, which may influence the convergence outcomes.

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Homework Statement



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The Attempt at a Solution



I'm testing the end points of 2 < x < 10.
The Series looks like this:

SUM[tex]\frac{(x-6)^n}{4^n\sqrt{n}}[/tex]

The first endpoint (10), I got diverges by the p-test (p <= 1). The second one, in my notes it says to take the lim, and if it's 0 then it converges by alt. series test. Why do I do two different tests?
 
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You take two different tests because they are two different series. One converges (conditionally) and one doesn't. I don't see what the problem is.
 
At x= 10, You have
[tex]\sum \frac{4^n}{4^n\sqrt{n}}= \sum\frac{1}{n^{1/2}}[/tex]
so the p test applies.

At x=1 you have
[tex]\sum \frac{(-5)^n}{4^n \sqrt{n}}= \sum \left(\frac{-5}{4}\right)^n\frac{1}{n^{1/2}}[/itex]<br /> which is an alternating series.[/tex]
 
Ok, maybe I just need help with my exponents. Why did the n exponents cancel in the first one but not in the second one?

I got
[tex]\sum \frac{(-4)^n}{4^n \sqrt{n}}= \sum \left(\frac{-4}{4}\right)^n\frac{1}{n^{1/2}} = \frac{-1}{n^{1/2}}[/tex]
for the second one.
 
Because 4/4= 1 and -5/4 does not!
 
I edited my post. sorry
 

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