What Are the Accumulation Points of the Sequence $1/n$?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the accumulation points of the sequence \(1/n\) for \(n = 1, 2, 3, \ldots\). Participants explore the definitions and implications of limit points in the context of real numbers, examining whether the set of accumulation points includes only zero or extends to the interval \([0, 1]\).

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the accumulation points of the sequence \(1/n\) are all numbers in the interval \([0, 1]\), suggesting that this set is open.
  • Others argue that according to the definition of limit points, the only accumulation point of the set \(S = \{1/n : n \in \mathbb{Z}^+\}\) is zero.
  • A participant questions why the points of the sequence \(1/n\) themselves are not considered accumulation points, providing reasoning based on the definition of limit points and the nature of neighborhoods around each point.
  • There is a correction regarding the claim that \(1/n\) forms an open interval, with a participant stating that this is not true.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach consensus on the accumulation points of the sequence \(1/n\). There are competing views regarding whether the accumulation points include only zero or the entire interval \([0, 1]\).

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on definitions of limit points and the nuances involved in determining neighborhoods around points in the sequence. Unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions about the nature of accumulation points are present.

Dustinsfl
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All numbers of the form $1/n$, $(n = 1,2,3,\ldots)$.$1/n = (0,1)$
The accumulation points are $x\in [0,1]$.
This set is open.
 
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dwsmith said:
All numbers of the form $1/n$, $(n = 1,2,3,\ldots)$.$1/n = (0,1)$
The accumulation points are $x\in [0,1]$.
This set is open.

Hi dwsmith, :)

So the set under consideration is, \(S=\{\frac{1}{n}:n\in\mathbb{Z}^+\}\). The definition of a limit point (accumulation point) taking the set of real numbers as the reference space is given >>here<<. If you go by that definition you can prove that the only accumulation point of \(S\) is zero.

Kind Regards,
Sudharaka.
 
dwsmith said:
All numbers of the form $1/n$, $(n = 1,2,3,\ldots)$.$1/n = (0,1)$
The accumulation points are $x\in [0,1]$.
This set is open.

$1/n = (0,1)$ this is not true
 
Sudharaka said:
Hi dwsmith, :)

So the set under consideration is, \(S=\{\frac{1}{n}:n\in\mathbb{Z}^+\}\). The definition of a limit point (accumulation point) taking the set of real numbers as the reference space is given >>here<<. If you go by that definition you can prove that the only accumulation point of \(S\) is zero.

Kind Regards,
Sudharaka.

As with the complex example, why aren't the points of $1/n$ accumulation points as well?
 
dwsmith said:
As with the complex example, why aren't the points of $1/n$ accumulation points as well?

Let me try to visualize things for you. The neighboring points of \(\frac{1}{n}\) are \(\frac{1}{n+1}\) and \(\frac{1}{n-1}\). You can take a neibourhood around \(\frac{1}{n}\) such that both of these points are not included. But to be a limit point every neighborhood of \(\frac{1}{n}\) should contain at least one point (in \(S\)) distinct from \(\frac{1}{n}\), which is not the case here. Does this clarify things for you?

Kind Regards,
Sudharaka.
 

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