Alt Test: Why Does Series 9 Converge?

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In summary, the author stated that the series 9 converges by using the alternating test because the terms of the sequence alternate in sign and the absolute value of the terms decrease in magnitude. This is a valid method to determine convergence. However, the first term of the sequence does not necessarily have to be greater than the following term as long as the overall pattern of alternating signs and decreasing magnitude is present.
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Homework Statement


why the author said the series 9 converges by using alternating test ? for the alternating test , the first term the sequence must be in descending order , the it is said to be converges , right?
however , in series 9 , 1 is >(-1/2) , but (-1/2) is not > (1/3)

Homework Equations

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foo9008 said:

Homework Statement


why the author said the series 9 converges by using alternating test ? for the alternating test , the first term the sequence must be in descending order , the it is said to be converges , right?
however , in series 9 , 1 is >(-1/2) , but (-1/2) is not > (1/3)

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


But 1/2 > 1/3, etc., and that is all that matters. You need to read the material more carefully.
 
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foo9008 said:
why the author said the series 9 converges by using alternating test ? for the alternating test , the first term the sequence must be in descending order , the it is said to be converges , right?
This makes no sense, "the first term the sequence must be in descending order". For descending order you have to look at the first tem, second term, and so on.

You need to read the conditions that must be met for the alternating series test to be used.
 

FAQ: Alt Test: Why Does Series 9 Converge?

What is the Alt Test?

The Alt Test, also known as the Alternating Series Test, is a mathematical test used to determine whether an infinite series converges or diverges.

How does the Alt Test work?

The Alt Test states that if the terms in an infinite series alternate in sign and decrease in absolute value, then the series will converge. This means that if the terms are getting smaller and smaller, the series will eventually reach a finite sum.

Why is the Alt Test important?

The Alt Test is important because it provides a simple and efficient way to determine whether an infinite series converges or diverges. This is useful in many areas of mathematics, such as calculus and differential equations.

What is the difference between convergence and divergence?

A convergent series is one that has a finite sum, meaning that it approaches a specific value as you add more and more terms. On the other hand, a divergent series is one that does not have a finite sum, meaning that it either approaches infinity or oscillates between different values as you add more terms.

How is the Alt Test used in real-world applications?

The Alt Test can be used in real-world applications to determine the behavior of certain systems, such as electrical circuits or population growth models. It can also be used to analyze the accuracy and convergence of numerical methods in solving mathematical problems.

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