Showing Continuous Function: Weierstrass Comparison

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around demonstrating the continuity of the function f(x) defined as the infinite series f(x) = ∑ (from n=0 to infinity) cos(nx)e^(-nx), where x is in the interval (0, infinity). The focus is on establishing uniform convergence of the series using the Weierstrass comparison theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the use of the Weierstrass comparison theorem to show uniform convergence. Questions arise regarding suitable bounding functions for the comparison, particularly concerning the behavior of e^(-nx) as n varies.

Discussion Status

Some participants have identified that |e^(-nx)cos(nx)| can be bounded by e^(-nx), and there is a recognition that e^(-nx) is less than 1 for positive x and n. The discussion is ongoing, with attempts to clarify the appropriate bounding function for the series.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need for a convergent series to apply the Weierstrass comparison theorem effectively, and some participants express uncertainty about finding an appropriate function M_n for comparison.

akoska
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How do I show that f(x)=sum (from n=0 to infinity) cos(nx)e^-nx is a continuous function? x is from (0, infinity)

So, I need to show that the series converges uniformly. I'm trying to say that |cos nx e^-nx| <= |e^-nx| and use Weierstrass comparison, but I can't find a function M_n to use for Weierstrass.

I feel like I'm missing something really simple...
 
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For positive n what is e^{-nx} always less than?
 
maverick280857 said:
For positive n what is e^{-nx} always less than?

1, but the sum of 1s is obviously not convergent.
 
akoska said:
1, but the sum of 1s is obviously not convergent.

Okay, let's see:

f(x) = \sum_{n = 0}^{\infty} e^{-nx}\cos(nx)

Clearly,

|e^{-nx}\cos(nx)| \leq e^{-nx}

Now, as you said, e^{-nx} &lt; 1 for all x \in (0,\infty) and nonnegative n. So, clearly, your "M_{n}" is simply the (convergent) geometric sum

\sum_{n = 0}^{\infty} e^{-nx}
 

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