242.tr.05 Use the integral test to determine if a series converges.

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the integral test to determine the convergence of a series. The series in question is $\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2n}-1}}$, and it is shown that the series converges by comparing it to an improper integral. The integral is evaluated using a substitution, and it is concluded that the series converges with a value of $\frac{\pi}{2}$.
  • #1
karush
Gold Member
MHB
3,269
5
$\tiny{242.tr.05}$
Use the integral test to determine
if a series converges.
$\displaystyle
\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2n}-1}}$
so...
$\displaystyle
\int_{1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2n}-1}}\, dn
=\int_{1}^{\infty} (e^{2n}-1)^{1/2} \, dn $
so
$u=e^{2n}-1\therefore du=2e^{2n}$
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
I would define:

\(\displaystyle S=\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2n}-1}}\)

And so:

\(\displaystyle S<\int_0^{\infty}\frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2x}-1}}\,dx\)

Let:

\(\displaystyle u=e^{x}\implies dx=\frac{du}{u}\)

And so:

\(\displaystyle S<\int_1^{\infty}\frac{1}{u\sqrt{u^2-1}}\,du\)

Let:

\(\displaystyle u=\sec(\theta)\implies du=\sec(\theta)\tan(\theta)\,d\theta\)

And so:

\(\displaystyle S<\int_0^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\,d\theta=\frac{\pi}{2}\)

Thus, the series converges.

edit: I played fast and loose with some improper integrals...:p
 
  • #3
$$\int_0^\infty\frac{1}{\sqrt{e^{2x}-1}}\,dx$$

$$e^{2x}-1=z^2$$

$$2e^{2x}\,dx=2z\,dz$$

$$dx=\frac{z}{z^2+1}\,dz$$

$$\int_0^\infty\frac{1}{z^2+1}\,dz=\lim_{z\to\infty}\arctan(z)=\frac{\pi}{2}$$
 

FAQ: 242.tr.05 Use the integral test to determine if a series converges.

What is the integral test and how does it work?

The integral test is a method used to determine the convergence or divergence of a series. It involves comparing the series to an improper integral and using the properties of integrals to determine the behavior of the series.

When should the integral test be used?

The integral test should be used when the series in question meets the following criteria:

  • The series has positive terms
  • The series is continuous
  • The series is monotonically decreasing

If these conditions are not met, the integral test may not provide an accurate result.

How do I use the integral test to determine convergence?

To use the integral test, first set up an improper integral with a variable of integration. Then, compare the resulting integral to the original series. If the integral converges, then the series also converges. If the integral diverges, then the series also diverges.

Can the integral test be used for all series?

No, the integral test can only be used for series that meet the criteria mentioned in the answer to question 2. If these conditions are not met, other tests or methods may need to be used to determine the convergence or divergence of the series.

Are there any limitations to using the integral test?

One limitation of the integral test is that it can only determine the convergence or divergence of a series, it cannot determine the exact sum of a convergent series. Additionally, the integral test may not work for some series that meet the criteria, so it is important to also use other tests or methods to confirm the result.

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