Show that the series is absolutely convergent

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SUMMARY

The series ##\sum \frac {cos(\frac{n\pi} {3})} {n^2}## is absolutely convergent, as established through the comparison test with the series ##\frac{1}{n^2}##. The absolute value of the series, ##\frac {|cos(\frac{n\pi} {3})|} {n^2}##, is bounded, which is sufficient for convergence. The confusion arose from incorrectly applying the limit comparison test instead of recognizing that the numerator does not need to converge, only be bounded. This clarification is crucial for correctly demonstrating absolute convergence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series convergence, specifically absolute convergence
  • Familiarity with the comparison test in calculus
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their properties
  • Basic limits and their evaluation in calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the comparison test and its application in series convergence
  • Study the properties of trigonometric functions, particularly cosine
  • Learn about the limit comparison test and how it differs from the direct comparison test
  • Explore additional convergence tests, such as the ratio test and root test
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on series convergence, as well as educators looking for examples of applying convergence tests in mathematical proofs.

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Homework Statement


Show that
##\sum \frac {cos(\frac{n\pi} {3})} {n^2}##
is absolutely convergent, and therefore convergent

Homework Equations


Comparison test to 1/n^2

The Attempt at a Solution


So to be absulutely convergent the absolute value of the series needs to be convergent. So we compare to the series 1/n^2

##\frac {|cos(\frac{n\pi} {3})|} {n^2}/\frac{1}{n^2}##

so we take the limit as n approaches infinity of

##|cos(\frac{n\pi} {3})|##

And that's where I get stuck because the limit doesn't exist. I know this isn't a trick question because the professor is fair and let us know he wouldn't put anything to trick us on this assignment.

Where did I go wrong or go from here?
 
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Got it. I thought maybe I could just stop with that but I had so much space on the page I'm thinking, "that can't be all." But yeah. That was my confusion.
 

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