Solving Sum HW Trouble: b-a=2, n=4, delta x=1/2

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a summation problem involving the function f(x) = 2/x, with parameters b-a = 2, n = 4, and delta x = 1/2. The user initially struggles with the general term and bounds of summation, mistakenly using 4/i when i = 0, which leads to an undefined result. After reevaluating, the user correctly identifies the general term as i/2 + 1, with summation bounds from i = 0 to i = 3. Visual aids, such as sketches, significantly enhance understanding and problem-solving.

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Homework Statement



I'm having trouble writing a sum for this:

https://scontent-b-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/v/1420232_10201136345792485_382911431_n.jpg?oh=ebd9432103184956c863370121e326ce&oe=529332ED

Homework Equations



delta x = (b-a)/n

n = 4
b-a = 2
delta x = 1/2

The Attempt at a Solution



I keep writing this. But we can't solve this for anything; 4/i when i = 0 is infinity. What am I doing wrong?

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/v/536211_10201136357192770_1062632899_n.jpg?oh=c155bbe6c53633a848621aacfcffc055&oe=52931A0F&__gda__=1385430375_4a3d5c0ebb07b3aaff69a8869b9a8da5
 
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For one thing, f(x) = 2/x. IDK what 4/i is supposed to represent.
 
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I think the issue here is finding the correct general term for xi and the correct bounds of summation.

I did it again, and this time for the general term I am using i/2 + 1, and the bounds of summation as i = 0 and i = 3.

I find that drawing a sketch helps. Immensely.

https://scontent-b-mia.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/v/1469817_10201136445594980_301054541_n.jpg?oh=0d3937e4a716935b821122e27ba1781d&oe=5292C107
 
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