Use the Limit Comparison Test to determine the series' convergence?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the convergence or divergence of the series Ʃ (4/(7+4n(ln^2(n))) from n=1 to ∞ using the Limit Comparison Test. The original poster expresses difficulty in finding a suitable p-series for comparison, as attempts have led to inconclusive results.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the Limit Comparison Test with various p-series but finds them inconclusive. They inquire about a suitable comparison series that would yield a definitive result.
  • Some participants suggest using the series b(n) = 1/(n ln^2 n) as an alternative for the Limit Comparison Test, indicating that it may be more appropriate for analysis.
  • There is a discussion about the instructor's expectation of using a p-series, with some participants questioning this assumption.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different series for comparison. While some guidance has been offered regarding alternative series, there is no explicit consensus on the best approach to take. The original poster expresses concern about the instructor's expectations and the potential need for further clarification.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is under the impression that a p-series should work for the Limit Comparison Test, as indicated by their instructor, but they have not found one that provides a conclusive result. There is also mention of the possibility of needing to start comparisons at n=2 for certain series.

EnlightenedOne
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Homework Statement



Use the Limit Comparison Test to determine if the series converges or diverges:
Ʃ (4/(7+4n(ln^2(n))) from n=1 to ∞.

(The denominator, for clarity, in words is: seven plus 4n times the natural log squared of n.)

Homework Equations



Limit Comparison Test:
Let Σa(n) be the original series, and Σb(n) be the comparison series.
1. If the lim(n->∞) a(n)/b(n) is a positive number, but not ∞, then a(n)'s convergence/divergence is the same as b(n)'s.
2. If the lim(n->∞) a(n)/b(n) = 0, then if b(n) is convergent, so is a(n), but if b(n) is divergent, the result is inconclusive.
3. If the lim(n->∞) a(n)/b(n) = ∞, then if b(n) is divergent, so is a(n), but if b(n) is convergent, the result is inconclusive.

The Attempt at a Solution



I need to use a p-series to determine if this series diverges or converges, but every p-series I have tried gives the result that makes it inconclusive.

Here is the issue:
When I make b(n) = 1/n (p-series that diverges), I get a limit of 0, which is inconclusive (via case 2).
When I make b(n) = 1/(n^2) (p-series that converges), I get a limit of ∞, which is inconclusive (via case 3).

No matter what p-series I try, I get an inconclusive case...

Can anyone find a comparison p-series that (using the Limit Comparison Test) works?? My instructor said a p-series will work, but everything I try does not.

Please show all steps. Thank you!
 
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I don't know about the p series thing, but you might try a limit comparison test with ##b_n=\frac 1 {n\ln^2 n}## which series you can try the integral test on. You may have to start at ##n=2## for the second series and integral test.
 
LCKurtz said:
I don't know about the p series thing, but you might try a limit comparison test with ##b_n=\frac 1 {n\ln^2 n}## which series you can try the integral test on. You may have to start at ##n=2## for the second series and integral test.

I know what you are saying, but my instructor is expecting a p-series, and I have to use the Limit Comparison Test. I really don't know why my instructor says that there is one, but that has to mean there is, unless there's a mistake.

What do I do if no others reply? Can I re-post this thread?
 
My instructor must be mistaken, because everyone that replies to my forum threads on this question says to try what you said. I'll just do that and explain it to my instructor next class.

Thank you
 

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