Absolute Convergence of Homework Series: Real Parameter p

In summary, the conversation discusses the convergence of the series \sum_{n=2}^{\infty} \ln \left(1+\frac{(-1)^n}{n^p}\right), where p is a real parameter. The attempt at a solution involves using the limit comparison test to determine the convergence and absolute/non-absolute convergence of the series. It is found that the series converges absolutely for p>1, but the proof for non-absolute convergence for 1/2 < p <= 1 is not provided.
  • #1
dobry_den
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Homework Statement


[tex]\sum_{n=2}^{\infty} \ln \left(1+\frac{(-1)^n}{n^p}\right)[/tex]

p is a real parameter, determine when the series converges absolutely/non-absolutely

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to do the limit [tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty} \frac{\ln \left(1+\frac{(-1)^n}{n^p}\right)}{\frac{(-1)^n}{n^p}}[/tex], which is equal to one and this suggests that the series coverges if p is positive (limit comparison test). But then I'm not sure how to determine the absolute/non-absolute convergence. Could you help me please? Thanks very much in advance!
 
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  • #2
Try to split the series into two parts - the even numbers and the odd ones and see if they both converge.
 
  • #3
i made a mistake in the first post, the limit comparison test is applicable only to non-negative series. then the limit should be like:
[tex]\lim_{n\rightarrow \infty} \frac{\left|\ln \left(1+\frac{(-1)^n}{n^p}\right)\right|}{\frac{1}{n^p}}[/tex]

which is equal to zero when p is positive. However, the lower series converges when p>1. Therefore, the original logarithm series converges absolutely for p>1.

The textbook then says that the series converges non-absolutely also for 1/2 < p <= 1. But I can't prove it - do you have any ideas?
 
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FAQ: Absolute Convergence of Homework Series: Real Parameter p

What is the definition of absolute convergence of a homework series?

The absolute convergence of a homework series refers to the convergence of a series regardless of the order in which the terms are arranged. In other words, if the absolute value of the terms in a series decreases to zero, then the series is absolutely convergent.

How is the parameter p used in determining absolute convergence of a homework series?

The parameter p is used in the Ratio Test for determining the absolute convergence of a homework series. This test compares the ratio of consecutive terms in a series to the limit of the ratio as n approaches infinity. If the limit is less than 1, the series is absolutely convergent. If the limit is greater than 1, the series is divergent. If the limit is equal to 1, the test is inconclusive.

What is the significance of a real parameter in the context of absolute convergence of homework series?

A real parameter in the context of absolute convergence of homework series allows for a more general analysis of series. It allows us to consider a wider range of values for p and determine the convergence or divergence of a series for each value. This can be useful in solving real-world problems and making more accurate predictions.

Can a homework series have both absolute and conditional convergence?

No, a series can only have either absolute convergence or conditional convergence. If a series is absolutely convergent, it is also conditionally convergent. However, the opposite is not always true. A series can be conditionally convergent but not absolutely convergent.

How is the concept of absolute convergence applied in real life?

The concept of absolute convergence is widely used in various fields of science and engineering. For example, it is used in error analysis to determine the accuracy of numerical methods and in physics to analyze the convergence of infinite series in mathematical models. It is also used in economics and finance to evaluate the convergence of financial models and in statistics to determine the convergence of statistical methods.

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