Why Does This Mathematical Equality Hold True?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter cappadonza
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Confusing Proof
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The mathematical equality \(\sum^{10^{i}-1}_{k=0} \frac{k}{10^i} = \frac{(10^i-1)}{2}\) holds true due to the application of the formula for the sum of the first \(n-1\) integers, specifically \(\sum\limits_{k=0}^{n-1}k=\frac{n(n-1)}{2}\). In this case, \(n\) is replaced by \(10^i\), confirming the equality. The series is finite, which is a crucial aspect of the proof.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of summation notation and series
  • Familiarity with the formula for the sum of the first \(n-1\) integers
  • Basic knowledge of finite series
  • Concept of mathematical proofs and equality
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the formula \(\sum\limits_{k=0}^{n-1}k=\frac{n(n-1)}{2}\)
  • Explore finite series and their properties in mathematical analysis
  • Learn about the implications of finite versus infinite series
  • Investigate mathematical proofs involving summation and equality
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, educators teaching algebra and calculus, and anyone interested in mathematical proofs and series analysis.

cappadonza
Messages
26
Reaction score
0
i'm going through a proof and i can't seem to workout why this equality makes sense
[tex]\sum^{10^{i}-1}_{k=0} \frac{k}{10^i} = \frac{(10^i-1)}{2}[/tex]
this may be obvious, any hints atleast would be much appreciated
 
Physics news on Phys.org
This is just [tex]\sum\limits_{k=0}^{n-1}k=\frac{n(n-1)}{2}[/tex]; in your problem, replace [tex]n \mbox{ by } 10^i[/tex].


By the way, your series is a finite one :)
Cheers.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
430
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K