Why Assume Limit of \( S_{n-1} = S_n \)?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the convergence of the series defined by \( S_n \) and the reasoning behind the assumption that \( \lim_{n \to \infty} S_{n-1} = \lim_{n \to \infty} S_n \). It is established that if the series converges, then \( \lim_{n \to \infty} a_n = 0 \) must hold true, where \( a_n = S_n - S_{n-1} \). The participants emphasize the importance of defining \( S_n \) clearly to avoid confusion and suggest using limits to demonstrate the relationship between \( S_n \) and \( S_{n-1} \).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series convergence and limits in calculus.
  • Familiarity with the notation and concepts of sequences and series.
  • Basic knowledge of LaTeX for mathematical expressions.
  • Ability to manipulate and analyze summations and their properties.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the definition and properties of convergent series in calculus.
  • Learn how to apply the epsilon-delta definition of limits to sequences.
  • Explore the relationship between partial sums and their limits in series.
  • Practice writing mathematical expressions using LaTeX for clarity.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on series and sequences, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to convergence and limits.

Mathematicsss

Homework Statement


If the sum of a sub n to infinity (n=1) converges then the limit of n as n tends to infinity of an = 0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


an =(a1+a2+...an)-(a1+...+an-1)
= limit of an (n tends to infinity) = sn -s(n-1) =0

The area I'm confused is why do we assume that the limit of s(n-1)= limit of sn
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Mathematicsss said:

Homework Statement


If the sum of a sub n to infinity (n=1) converges then the limit of n as n tends to infinity of an = 0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


an =(a1+a2+...an)-(a1+...+an-1)
= limit of an (n tends to infinity) = sn -s(n-1) =0

The area I'm confused is why do we assume that the limit of s(n-1)= limit of sn
The sum is given as convergent, so ##\lim_{n \to \infty}S_n## exists, let's say is equal to ##S##. Can you simply try to prove, that ##\lim_{n \to \infty} b_n = 0## where ##b_n = S_n - S_{n-1}\,##? Hint: try to estimate ##b_n = (S_n-S) - (S_{n_1}-S)##.
 
Mathematicsss said:

Homework Statement


If the sum of a sub n to infinity (n=1) converges then the limit of n as n tends to infinity of an = 0
Learning a little bit of LaTeX, will make what you're writing much easier to comprehend. Under INFO --> Help/How-to is this page: https://www.physicsforums.com/help/latexhelp/
Mathematicsss said:

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


an =(a1+a2+...an)-(a1+...+an-1)
= limit of an (n tends to infinity) = sn -s(n-1) =0

The area I'm confused is why do we assume that the limit of s(n-1)= limit of sn
How is ##S_n## defined? You don't mention it anywhere above.
 

Similar threads

Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K