What is the Error Term for Computing the Limit of a_n=n^(1/n)?

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SUMMARY

The limit of the sequence a_n = n^(1/n) as n approaches infinity can be computed using the binomial theorem and the concept of the error term. The error term is defined as |a_n - L|, which must converge to zero. Attempts to apply the binomial theorem to the expression ((n-1)+1)^(1/n) were made, alongside the squeeze theorem. Ultimately, the comparative terms a_{n+1} - a_n were shown to approach zero, validating the use of the Sandwich Theorem in this context.

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Homework Statement



Compute the limit a_n=n^(1/n) without using the fact that lim log a_n=log lim a_n. Instead, we're expected to solve this using binomial theorem and the error term.


Homework Equations



na

The Attempt at a Solution



Well, the error term = |a_n - L| which is expected to go to zero. I tried using binomial theorem on ((n-1)+1)^1/n with no luck. Also tried squeeze theorem.
 
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hint

The binomial theorem is not obvious since you do now have whole number exponents.

Here is an attempt:
a_n=n^{1/n}

a_{n+1}-a_n = (n+1)^{1/(n+1)}-n^{1/n}

<(n+1)^{1/n}-n^{1/n}


and a_{n+1}-a_n > (n+1)^{1/(n+1)}-(n)^{1/(n+1)}
Showing that these comparitive terms go to 0 as n goes to infinity may use the "Binomial Number" expansion. Then, Sandwich Thm applies.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binomial_theorem
 

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