Understanding Monotonic Sequences: Simplification and Frustration

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the simplification of a mathematical expression involving monotonic sequences, specifically the sequence defined by an = {5n/n!}. Participants are exploring the steps involved in simplifying the ratio of consecutive terms in the sequence, addressing confusion regarding factorial notation and simplification techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the simplification of the expression (5n+1)/(n+1)! divided by (5n/n!), questioning how it simplifies to 5/(n+1).
  • Another participant provides a step-by-step simplification, indicating that the expression can be simplified by canceling like terms.
  • A participant new to pure mathematics seeks clarification on how (n+1)! can be expressed as (n+1)n!.
  • Several participants clarify the definition of n!, explaining it as the product of all positive integers up to n.
  • One participant confirms the relationship (n+1)! = (n+1)n!, reinforcing the understanding of factorial notation.
  • A later reply acknowledges the need for more beginner-level explanations, expressing frustration with the complexity of the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definitions and relationships involving factorials, but there is ongoing confusion regarding the simplification process, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved for some participants.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include varying levels of familiarity with mathematical notation and factorials, which may affect comprehension of the simplification process.

rohan03
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Now I know how this works- but I came across this example and even though I know the answer- the simplification given in the explanation doesn't make sense to me.

the squence is an= {5n/n!}
now applying an+1 and dividing an+1/an
the book indicates = 5/n+1

this is what I don't get how
(5n+1 /(n+1)!)/(5 n/n!) can simplify to that ?

can someone explain please- what am I missing here.
 
Last edited:
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We have...
\frac{5^{n+1}}{(n+1)!}\frac{n!}{5^n} = \frac{5\cdot5^{n}}{(n+1)n!}\frac{n!}{5^n}
...which very easily simplifies to the expression you provided by cancelling out like terms.
 
right - this is what is not clear to me- I am very new to pure maths
how (n+1)! can be written as - (n+1)n!- may be I am having a dumb moment
 
Last edited:
What is the definition of n! for you?
 
well n! means = any number say 5 then multiplied by 5x4x3x2x1 ( natural numbers in hughest to lowest order)
 
so basically product of positive integres less than or equal to n
 
So, you have

(n+1)!=(n+1)*n*(n-1)*(n-2)*...*3*2*1

Right?

But then we have

(n+1)!=(n+1)*[n*(n-1)*(n-2)*...*3*2*1]

And the thing in brackets look familiar, no?? Indeed, the bracketed thing is n!
So

(n+1)!=(n+1)*n!
 
thank you this makes sense- sometimes I just get frustrated with not enough explanation at beiggners level
 

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