What Is the Radius and Interval of Convergence for This Series?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the radius of convergence and interval of convergence for the infinite series \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{x^n n^2}{3 \cdot 6 \cdot 9 \cdots (3n)}\). The participants are exploring the application of the ratio test in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the ratio test but expresses uncertainty about the absolute value signs and the implications of their calculations. Some participants confirm the correctness of the original poster's simplification and prompt further exploration of the limit involved in the ratio test.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the calculations and questioning the implications of the limit derived from the ratio test. There is a recognition that the limit approaches zero, leading to discussions about convergence and the potential implications for the radius and interval of convergence.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing examination of the assumptions regarding the convergence of the series based on the limit results, with some participants suggesting that the series converges for all values of \(x\), leading to questions about the interval of convergence and the radius.

stunner5000pt
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Homework Statement


Find the radius of convergence and interval of convergence for the following infinite series
[tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\∞} \frac{x^n n^2}{3 \cdot 6 \cdot 9 \cdot ... (3n)}[/tex]



Homework Equations


Ratio test


The Attempt at a Solution


Using ratio test we get
im not sure how to put absolute value signs but
[tex]\frac{(n+1)^2 x^{n+1}}{3 \cdot 6 \cdot 9 ... (3n) \cdot 3(n+1)} \frac{3 \cdot 6 \cdot 9 \cdot 3n}{n^2 x^n}[/tex]

and this becomes
[tex]\frac{(n+1)^2 x}{3 n^2 (n+1)}[/tex]
and that simplifies to

[tex]\frac{x(n+1)}{3n^2}[/tex]

now here is where I have the trouble. the bottom of the fraction above is 'stronger' than the top which means that when we put the above < 1, it does not solve.

Can you please check if I did all the math correctly? Your assistance is greatly appreciated!
 
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stunner5000pt said:
[tex]\frac{x(n+1)}{3n^2}[/tex]
Yes, this looks right. Now ignore the ##x## for a moment, and consider this limit:
$$\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} \frac{n+1}{3n^2}$$
What does this equal?
 
You should have absolute values:$$
\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty}\left| \frac {x(n+1)}{3n^2}\right |$$
What do you get for that limit and what does it tell you?
 
LCKurtz said:
You should have absolute values:$$
\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty}\left| \frac {x(n+1)}{3n^2}\right |$$
What do you get for that limit and what does it tell you?

thanks for your reply.

Isn't the limit zero? Wouldnt that mean that we can't make the limit <1?
 
stunner5000pt said:
thanks for your reply.

Isn't the limit zero? Wouldnt that mean that we can't make the limit <1?

In my book, 0 < 1. What does that tell you about the series?
 
LCKurtz said:
In my book, 0 < 1. What does that tell you about the series?

Ok that's perfect. that tells me that series converges.
How would I find the radius of convergence, though?
 
stunner5000pt said:
Ok that's perfect. that tells me that series converges.
How would I find the radius of convergence, though?

Well, for what values of x does it converge?
 
LCKurtz said:
Well, for what values of x does it converge?

it would converge for all x?

Would that mean the interval of convergence is -∞ to +∞ ?
Does that mean the radius is infinity?
 
Since the limit ratio was zero no matter what value x has, the answer to all three questions is yes.
 
  • #10
LCKurtz said:
Since the limit ratio was zero no matter what value x has, the answer to all three questions is yes.

Thank you for your help
 

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