Summation Notation for [(i^3)/(N^3)]

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The discussion focuses on understanding summation notation, particularly for the expression N Σ (i^3)/(N^3) from i=1 to N. The initial confusion arises from how to handle the variable N in summation compared to a fixed number like 6. Participants clarify that the first few terms of the summation are 1/(N^3), 8/(N^3), and so on, leading to the general form including an ellipsis for additional terms. It is noted that there is a formula for summing cubes, similar to the formula for summing integers, which can be referenced for a complete solution. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how to express and manipulate summations involving variables.
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I think I get summation notation when when there are more numbers than variables
6
Ʃ i/6 <---I can figure that out.
i=1

But I'm confused on how to find what this equals:
N
Ʃ (i^3)/(N^3) = ?
i=1

How do you add something N times? ...I could deal with a number like 6, but I'm confused about N...

Any help? :/

Thank you! :)
 
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Lo.Lee.Ta. said:
I think I get summation notation when when there are more numbers than variables
6
Ʃ i/6 <---I can figure that out.
i=1

But I'm confused on how to find what this equals:
N
Ʃ (i^3)/(N^3) = ?
i=1

How do you add something N times? ...I could deal with a number like 6, but I'm confused about N...

Any help? :/

Thank you! :)

The first term in the summation is 1/N3.
The second term is 8/N3.

Can you continue?
What is the last term in the summation?

You will necessarily need to use an ellipsis (i.e., "..." ) when you expand this summation.
 
So the (N)^3 in denominator is just kept as (N)^3!

Okay, would this be the answer then:

1/(N^3) + 8/(N^3) + 27/(N^3) + ... + ((N-1)^3)/(N^3) + (N^3)/(N^3)
 
Lo.Lee.Ta. said:
So the (N)^3 in denominator is just kept as (N)^3!

Okay, would this be the answer then:

1/(N^3) + 8/(N^3) + 27/(N^3) + ... + ((N-1)^3)/(N^3) + (N^3)/(N^3)

Yes, if that's the form you want the answer in. If you actually want to sum it up there is a formula for 1^3+2^3+3^3+...+N^3. Just like there is a formula for 1+2+3+...+N=(N+1)N/2. Probably easiest to try and look it up unless you are required to prove it.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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