Confused by Example 26: n=9, How Does k=0?

Just compare it to the limit for the series which is 0/0. If the limit of the ratio of derivatives is greater than 1, the series diverges. If it is less than 1, the series converges.
  • #1
Firepanda
430
0
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/3928/idontgetkm1.jpg

For example 26, I don't see how (for the 1st part) n=9. In the definition of the summing of them it says n is the number above SIGMA, so why not 10? Is it to do with n=1, which isn't k=0 from the definition?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Also,

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/9089/cantix9.jpg

I did the 1st, which diverged by the divergence test.

But the 2nd, I tried the ratio test, but it got far 2 complicated too early on. Which test do I use? I tried them all, what am I doing wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
Firepanda said:
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/3928/idontgetkm1.jpg

For example 26, I don't see how (for the 1st part) n=9. In the definition of the summing of them it says n is the number above SIGMA, so why not 10? Is it to do with n=1, which isn't k=0 from the definition?
Yes, the formula given for a geometric series starts with k= 0. The example given
[tex]\sum_{k= 1}^10 \frac{2}{3^n}[/tex]
starts with k= 1. The simplest way to handle that is to factor 1/3 out of the product:
[tex]\sum_{k=1}^{10}\frac{2}{3} \frac{1}{3^{k-1}}[/tex]
Now, let j= k-1. Then k= 1 becomes j= 1-1= 0 and k= 10 becomes j= [itex]j= 10-1= 9[/itex]. Of course, [itex]3^{k-1}[/itex] becomes [itex]3^j[/itex]. The sum is now
[tex]\sum_{j= 0}^9 \frac{2}{3}\frac{1}{3^j}[/itex]
That is a geometric series with A= 2/3, r= 1/3, and n= 9.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #4
Firepanda said:
Also,

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/9089/cantix9.jpg

I did the 1st, which diverged by the divergence test.

But the 2nd, I tried the ratio test, but it got far 2 complicated too early on. Which test do I use? I tried them all, what am I doing wrong?

For that one,
[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 0}\frac{e^x- x- 1}{sin^2(x)}[/itex]
since both numerator and denominator go to 0 I would use L'Hopital's rule (twice). And, again, you don't need to find the limit itself!
 
Last edited by a moderator:

FAQ: Confused by Example 26: n=9, How Does k=0?

What does n=9 and k=0 mean in Example 26?

In this context, n=9 represents the total number of elements or items being considered, while k=0 represents the starting position or index of the first element. This information is often used in mathematical or programming examples to demonstrate algorithms or processes.

How does the value of n affect the outcome in Example 26?

The value of n can greatly affect the outcome in Example 26, as it determines the total number of elements or items being considered. This can impact the efficiency, complexity, or accuracy of a solution or algorithm.

Why is k=0 used as the starting position in Example 26?

K=0 is often used as the starting position in programming or mathematical examples because it represents the first element in a sequence. This helps to establish a clear and consistent starting point for calculations or processes.

Can n or k have other values in Example 26?

Yes, n and k can have other values in Example 26 depending on the specific problem or scenario being considered. These values may be chosen to demonstrate different outcomes or to test the limitations of a particular solution or algorithm.

How can I apply this example to real-life situations?

Example 26, and other mathematical or programming examples, can be applied to real-life situations by understanding the underlying principles and concepts being demonstrated. This can help in problem-solving, decision-making, and understanding patterns or relationships in various fields such as finance, engineering, and data analysis.

Back
Top