Solving a power series

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the sum of the power series ##\sum_{n=0}^{+\infty} \frac{x^n}{2n+1}##, including determining its radius of convergence and exploring methods to find the sum within its open interval of convergence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines their approach to finding the radius of convergence using the ratio test, concluding that the radius is R = 1.
  • Another participant confirms the correctness of the initial calculations but seeks clarification on the methods for finding the sum of the series, suggesting the use of techniques from the textbook.
  • A third participant introduces the function ##\operatorname{arctanh}(x)##, indicating a potential manipulation of the series to relate it to this known function.
  • A fourth participant proposes a differential equation approach, suggesting that if ##f(x) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac{x^n}{2n+1}##, then a relationship involving its derivative can be established to solve for ##f(x)##.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the correctness of the initial steps for determining the radius of convergence, but there is no consensus on the method for finding the sum of the series, with multiple approaches being suggested.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the manipulation of series and the application of differential equations remain unresolved, and the discussion does not clarify the specific techniques available in the textbook for summing the series.

ILY
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The question was: calculate the following sum within its open interval of convergence after determining the radius of convergence:

##\sum_{n=0}^{+\infty} \frac{x^n}{2n+1}##

##\textbf{Finding the radius of convergence:}##

I believe I followed the correct steps, but I got stuck solving it. Here's what I've done so far:

We use the ratio test to determine the radius of convergence. The formula for the radius of convergence, R, is:

##\frac{1}{R} = \lim_{n \to \infty} \left| \frac{a_{n+1}}{a_n} \right|##

In this case, the general term ##a_n = \frac{x^n}{2n+1}##. Applying the ratio test:

##\frac{1}{R} = \lim_{n \to \infty} \left| \frac{\frac{x^{n+1}}{2(n+1)+1}}{\frac{x^n}{2n+1}} \right|##

Simplifying:

##\frac{1}{R} = \lim_{n \to \infty} \left| \frac{x^{n+1}(2n+1)}{(2n+3)x^n} \right|##
##\frac{1}{R} = \lim_{n \to \infty} \left| \frac{x(2n+1)}{2n+3} \right|##

Now, as ##n \to \infty##, ##\frac{2n+1}{2n+3} \to 1##. Therefore:

##\frac{1}{R} = |x| \cdot 1 = |x|##

Thus, the series converges when |x| < 1, and the radius of convergence is R = 1.

I think this is correct, but I got stuck while solving it. If anyone could help me, it would be greatly appreciated!
 
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Fixed all of your LaTeX, which was technically correct but used incorrect delimiters. Here at PF the delimiters are ##, for inline LaTeX, and $$, for standalone LaTeX. See the LaTeX Guide at the link in the lower left corner of this pane.
ILY said:
I think this is correct, but I got stuck while solving it.
I don't see anything wrong in the work you show.

By "solving it," I presume you mean finding the sum of the series. What are some of the techniques shown in your textbook for finding the sum of a convergent power series? Your textbook might have some examples.
 
Consider <br /> \operatorname{arctanh}(x) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac{x^{2n+1}}{2n+1}, \quad |x| &lt; 1. Now you just have to manipulate the power so that it is n rather than 2n+1. Can you see how to do that? I would start with 0 \leq x &lt; 1, and then try ot extend the result to -1 &lt; x &lt; 0.
 
Alternatively, if <br /> f(x) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac{x^n}{2n+1} then <br /> f&#039;(x) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac{nx^{n-1}}{2n+1} so that <br /> 2xf&#039;(x) + f(x) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty x^n = \frac{1}{1 - x} is a differential equation which can be solved for f subject to f(0) = 1.
 

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