Prove Convergence of Series of Integrals | a_n |^2

In summary, the problem involves proving the convergence of the series \sum_{n=1}^\infty |a_n|^2, where a_n is defined as \frac{1}{2\pi} \int_0^{2\pi} f(x) \sin(nx) dx for n = 1,2,3,\dotsc. The key steps involve using integration by parts and the boundedness of sine and cosine to show that |a_n| is bounded by certain integrals involving |f(x)| and |f'(x)|. The fact that the terms of the series are |a_n|^2 and not just |a_n| is important.
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Homework Statement


Let [itex]f[/itex] be a continuously differentiable function on the interval [itex][0,2\pi][/itex], where [itex]f(0) = f(2\pi)[/itex] and [itex]f'(0) = f'(2\pi)[/itex]. For [itex]n = 1,2,3,\dotsc[/itex], define
[itex]
a_n = \frac{1}{2\pi} \int_0^{2\pi} f(x) \sin(nx) dx.
[/itex]
Prove that the series[itex] \sum_{n=1}^\infty |a_n|^2[/itex] converges.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So far I've got that
[itex]\frac{1}{2\pi} \int_0^{2\pi} f(x) \sin(nx) dx = \frac{1}{2\pi n}\int_0^{2\pi} f'(x)\cos(nx) dx[/itex]
via integration by parts and the conditions on [itex]f[/itex]. I've also got that
[itex]|a_n| \le \frac{1}{2\pi} \int_0^{2\pi} |f(x)| dx[/itex]
and
[itex]|a_n| \le \frac{1}{2\pi n} \int_0^{2\pi} |f'(x)| dx[/itex]

Both from the boundedness of sine and cosine. I also know that [itex]f[/itex] is a rectifiable curve, although I'm not sure this helps at all, nor what that really means. I'm just stuck as to where to go from here since I've forgotten much of what I'd learned of series. Also I'm wondering whether the bounds on [itex]|a_n|[/itex] are actually helping at all. If you could point me in the right direction I'd be very grateful.

Thanks.


Edit: I just realized that the second bound on [itex]|a_n|[/itex] implies that it goes to 0, so the series at least has a chance to converge.
 
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  • #2
You're on the right track with your integration by parts. You might want to take a look at just the integral [itex]\int_0^{2\pi}|cos(nx)|dx[/itex] for various n. Also, the fact that the terms of the series are [itex]|a_n|^2[/itex] and not just [itex]|a_n|[/itex] is important.

Knowing that [itex]f'(0) = f'(2\pi)[/itex] seems superfluous to this problem..
 

1. What is the definition of convergence for a series of integrals?

Convergence for a series of integrals refers to the behavior of the sequence of partial sums of the integrals. It means that as the number of terms in the sequence increases, the sum of the integrals approaches a finite value.

2. How do you prove convergence for a series of integrals?

To prove convergence for a series of integrals, one must use a convergence test such as the comparison test, ratio test, or integral test. These tests help determine if the series of integrals is convergent or divergent.

3. What is the importance of proving convergence for a series of integrals?

Proving convergence for a series of integrals is important because it helps determine if the series has a finite sum. This can be useful in real-world applications where the sum of integrals represents a physical quantity.

4. Are there any special cases when proving convergence for a series of integrals?

Yes, there are special cases such as when the integrals involve oscillatory functions or have discontinuities. In these cases, additional techniques such as the Dirichlet test or Abel's test may be necessary to prove convergence.

5. Can a series of integrals converge even if the individual integrals diverge?

Yes, it is possible for a series of integrals to converge even if the individual integrals diverge. This is known as conditional convergence and can occur when the signs of the integrals alternate. In this case, the series of integrals may still have a finite sum.

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