When does the series $\sum_2^\infty\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}$ diverge for $p<0$?

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The series $\sum_2^\infty\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}$ diverges for all values of $p<0$. This conclusion is reached by applying the comparison test, where it is established that $\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p} > \frac{1}{n}$ for $n \ge 3$. Since the harmonic series $\sum_2\frac{1}{n}$ diverges, it follows that the original series must also diverge under the same conditions.

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Test for convergence: $\sum_2^\infty\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}$ when $p<0$.

My working:

Consider the function $f(x)=\frac{1}{x(\ln x)^p}=\frac{(\ln x)^q}{x}$ when $q=-p>0$.

In order to use the integral test, I have to establish that $f(x)$ is decreasing for $x\ge 2$. How do I proceed?
 
Last edited:
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Alexmahone said:
Test for convergence: $\sum_2^\infty\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}$ when $p<0$.

My working:

Consider the function $f(x)=\frac{1}{x(\ln x)^p}=\frac{(\ln x)^q}{x}$ when $q=-p>0$.

In order to use the integral test, I have to establish that $f(x)$ is decreasing for $x\ge 2$. How do I proceed?
Investigate when $\int_2^{\infty} f(x)dx$ converges (for which values $p$?).If you have troubles with integration by parts, in this case, you can use:http://www.encyclopediaofmath.org/index.php/Ermakov_convergence_criterion
 
Last edited:
Also sprach Zarathustra said:
Investigate when $\int_2^{\infty} f(x)dx$ converges (for which values $p$?).

Actually, it's easier to use the comparison test:

If $p<0$, $\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}=\frac{(\ln n)^{-p}}{n}>\frac{1}{n}$ for $n\ge 3$.

Since $\sum_2\frac{1}{n}$ diverges, $\sum_2\frac{1}{n(\ln n)^p}$ also diverges.
 

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