Taylor series (very easy but have a problem)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Taylor series expansion of the function ln(x^2 + x - 6) at the point c = 2. Participants are exploring the implications of this expansion and the validity of the point of expansion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to substitute variables to simplify the function but expresses uncertainty about applying the Taylor series for ln(1+x). Another participant suggests factoring the expression to separate the logarithmic terms. There are questions regarding the validity of expanding the Taylor series at x = 2, particularly due to the function approaching negative infinity at that point.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding factoring the expression and calculating derivatives, but there is also a critical examination of the validity of the expansion point, indicating a productive direction in questioning assumptions.

Contextual Notes

FermatPell
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Homework Statement



series expansion at [tex]c=2[/tex] of [tex]ln(x^2+x-6)[/tex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



After substituting [tex]y= x -2[/tex] we get ln(y^2+5y) = ln(y) + ln(y+5) but I am not kinda sure how to use the taylor series of ln(1+x)...
 
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Hi Fermatpall,

Try factoring x^2+x−6 instead. So:

ln(x^2+x−6) = ln((x+3)(x-2)) = ln(x+3) + ln(x-2)

The problem tells us to expand the taylor series around c = 2. The formula we need is:

[tex]\sum_{n = 0} ^ {\infty} \frac{f^{(n)}(c)}{n!} \, (x - c)^{n}[/tex]

Let's crank out some derivatives then:

[tex]f'(x) = \frac{1}{x+3} + \frac{1}{x-2}[/tex]
.
.
.

Calculate a few more derivatives and you'll find a pattern. After this is done, throw your result into the formula.
 
Hmm, I don't think there is a Taylor expansion around x=2, since [itex]\ln(2^2 + 2 -6)=-\infty[/itex].
 
I like Serena said:
Hmm, I don't think there is a Taylor expansion around x=2, since [itex]\ln(2^2 + 2 -6)=-\infty[/itex].

Good call. I didn't check to see if the point was even valid.
 

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