Convergence of Series: $\sum a_nb_n$

S_{n+p} - S_n| &= \left| \sum_{k=n+1}^{n+p} a_k b_k \right| \\&= \left| \sum_{k=n+1}^{n+p} (a_k - a_{k+1}) b_k \right| \quad\text{telescoping sum} \\&\leq \sum_{k=n+1}^{n+p} |a_k - a_{k+1}| \cdot |b_k| \\&\leq \sum_{k=n+1}^{\infty} |a_k - a_{k+1
  • #1
Krizalid1
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Let $a_n$ and $b_n$ be sequences in $\mathbb R.$ Show that if $\displaystyle\sum b_n$ converges and $\displaystyle\sum|a_n-a_{n+1}|<\infty,$ then $\displaystyle\sum a_nb_n$ converges.
 
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  • #2
My attempt:
Let $S_n=\displaystyle\sum_{k=1}^{n}a_nb_n.$ We have $$|S_n-S_{n-1}|=|a_nb_n|\leq|b_n||a_n-a_{n+1}|.$$ Since $\displaystyle\sum|b_n|$ converges and $\displaystyle\sum|a_n-a_{n+1}|<\infty,$ then it follows that
$\displaystyle\sum|S_n-S_{n-1}|<\infty.$
By Cauchy's convergence criterion, it follows that the sequence $\left(S_n\right)$ is convergent, which implies that $\displaystyle\sum a_nb_n$ converges.
Is my proof correct? If no, then how can I correctly prove the statement?A:

Your proof is not quite valid as it stands since you need to show that $S_n$ is a Cauchy sequence, not merely that its differences are bounded.

Let $(S_n)$ denote the partial sums of $\sum a_n b_n$, i.e. $S_n = \sum_{k=1}^n a_k b_k$. Then for any $n \ge
 

FAQ: Convergence of Series: $\sum a_nb_n$

What is the definition of convergence of a series?

The convergence of a series is a mathematical concept that refers to the behavior of a series as the number of terms increases. A series is said to be convergent if the sum of its terms approaches a finite limit as the number of terms increases, and divergent if the sum does not approach a finite limit.

What is the relationship between the convergence of the individual series and the convergence of the product series?

The convergence of the product series, $\sum a_nb_n$, is dependent on the convergence of the individual series, $\sum a_n$ and $\sum b_n$. If both individual series are convergent, the product series will also be convergent. However, if one or both individual series are divergent, the product series may or may not be convergent.

What are the conditions for the product series to be convergent?

The product series, $\sum a_nb_n$, is convergent if both individual series, $\sum a_n$ and $\sum b_n$, are absolutely convergent. This means that the sum of the absolute values of the terms in each series must approach a finite limit as the number of terms increases.

How can we determine the convergence or divergence of the product series?

To determine the convergence or divergence of the product series, we can use various convergence tests such as the comparison test, the ratio test, or the root test. These tests can help us determine whether the series is convergent or divergent, and in some cases, they can also help us find the exact sum of the series.

What is the importance of understanding the convergence of series?

Understanding the convergence of series is crucial in many areas of mathematics, physics, and engineering. It allows us to determine the behavior of a series and whether it represents a meaningful quantity. It also helps us to solve various mathematical problems and make accurate predictions in the real world, especially in fields such as economics and finance.

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