Unbounded Sequences w.r Divergence

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    Divergence Sequences
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions required for a sequence \( a_n \) in the reals to diverge to \( +\infty \). Participants explore definitions, implications of being unbounded, and the characteristics of sequences that diverge, particularly focusing on whether being unbounded above is sufficient for divergence to \( +\infty \).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that a sequence \( a_n \) diverges to \( +\infty \) if it is unbounded above and suggests that this might be sufficient for divergence.
  • Another participant confirms the definition of divergence to \( +\infty \) and discusses the role of the variable \( M \) in the definition.
  • There is a question about whether \( M > 0 \) is necessary or if any \( M \) suffices in the definition of divergence.
  • Some participants express confusion regarding the implications of a sequence being unbounded above versus being increasing.
  • A participant introduces a sequence that oscillates and questions whether it can be said to diverge to \( +\infty \) or \( -\infty \), raising concerns about the limits of such a sequence.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of divergence to \( +\infty \), but there is disagreement on whether being unbounded above alone is sufficient for a sequence to diverge to \( +\infty \. Additionally, there is uncertainty regarding the behavior of oscillating sequences and their classification in terms of divergence.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the necessity of the sequence being increasing in addition to being unbounded above. The role of the variable \( M \) in the definition of divergence is also not fully clarified, leading to different interpretations among participants.

skunkswks
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considering divergence of a sequence in the reals, a_{n}, if such a sequence → +∞ as → n, then I would like to know what type of sequence this reuqires. (excluding divergence to -∞ for now)

so a_n → +∞ iif:
\forall M \exists N, \forall n\geqN \Rightarrow a_n \geq M .

So is the above equivalent to stating ( and so another way of saying a_n → +∞ ):
1. a_{n} is increasing &
2. a_{n} NOT bounded above ?

now my main question is, why can't i simply say a_n → +∞ iff a_{n} is NOT BOUNDED ABOVE (and nothing else).

surely then a_{n} by the definition of being unbounded above means a_{n}has no choice but to increase towards +∞? Right...?

and one more consideration: so then a_{n} could be something like :

http://tinypic.com/r/11udow4/5

as drawn. This sequence oscillates, diverges and heads to + ∞ as well as -∞. So can I say this sequence → ∞ or -∞ or which!?

Thanks for any help.
 
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skunkswks said:
considering divergence of a sequence in the reals, a_{n}, if such a sequence → +∞ as → n, then I would like to know what type of sequence this reuqires.

so a_n → +∞ iif:
\forall M [/itex]\exists N, \forall n\geqN \Rightarrow a_n \geq

a_n\rightarrow ∞ \Longleftrightarrow \forall M\in ℝ \,\,\exists N_M\in N\,\, s.t. \,\,n>N_M\Longrightarrow a_n > M .

DonAntonio
 
yep that is the definition. M>0 could also work fine instead in that defination?
 
skunkswks said:
yep that is the definition. M>0 could also work fine instead in that defination?


Any M works.

DonAntonio
 
skunkswks said:
yep that is the definition. M>0 could also work fine instead in that defination?

I don't understand, aren't you using M as a variable, not a constant?

Re your function, if the pattern extends to infinity, then the function does not have a limit of oo.
 
Bacle2 said:
I don't understand, aren't you using M as a variable, not a constant?

Re your function, if the pattern extends to infinity, then the function does not have a limit of oo.

Okay M as a variable then, but I am just trying to specfiy what range of values it can take.

So with my original post, for a_{n} → +∞ , does it only have to be Unbounded above (instead of also being increasing)?

and with the defination of a_{n} → +∞, that function would not 'diverge to +∞' right?
 

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