Define a sequence (fn) from n=1 to infinity of functions

In summary, we are trying to determine if the sequence of functions defined by fn(t)=t^n on the interval [0,1] converges in the L2 space, which is defined as the space of functions on [0,1] with finite L2 norm. To do so, we must show that the sequence is Cauchy, meaning that the distance between any two functions in the sequence approaches 0 as the indices of those functions approach infinity. This can be determined by showing that the L2 norm of the difference between any two functions goes to 0 as the indices go to infinity.
  • #1
henry22
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Homework Statement


Define a sequence (fn) from n=1 to infinity of functions on [0,1] by fn(t)=t^n
does the sequence converge in (CL^2[0,1],||.||2)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I am struggling on where to start. I am fairly new to the L2 space and so would just like a bit of help starting.
 
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  • #2


The L2 norm of function f(t) in this space is [tex]\sqrt{\int_0^1 f^2(t)dt[/tex].

Here, that means that if this sequence to a function, f, then we must have that, given any [itex]\epsilon> 0[/itex],
[tex]||f- t^n||= \sqrt{\int_0^1 (f(t)- t^n)^2 dt}< \epsilon[/tex]
for sufficiently large n (n> N for some integer N).

But just to determine whether or not it converges it might be better to show determine whether or not this is a Cauchy sequence. That is, determine if
[tex]||t^n- t^m||= \sqrt{\int_0^1 (t^n- t^m)^2 dt}= \sqrt{\int_0^1(t^{2n}- 2t^{n+m}+ t^{2m})dt}[/tex]
goes to 0 as both m and n go to infinity.

(Since [itex]\sqrt{a_n}[/itex] goes to 0 if and only if [itex]a_n[/itex] goes to 0, you can ignore the square root.)
 

FAQ: Define a sequence (fn) from n=1 to infinity of functions

What is a sequence of functions?

A sequence of functions is a list of functions, where each function is defined for a specific value of n. The value of n can be any positive integer, and as n increases, the functions in the sequence change accordingly.

How is a sequence of functions defined?

A sequence of functions is defined by specifying a starting value for n, a rule for generating subsequent values of n, and a rule for generating the corresponding functions for each value of n. For example, a sequence of functions fn(x) can be defined as fn(x) = nx, where n ranges from 1 to infinity.

What is the purpose of defining a sequence of functions?

The purpose of defining a sequence of functions is to study how a function changes as the value of n changes. This can help in understanding the behavior and properties of a function, and can also be useful in solving mathematical problems.

What are some examples of sequences of functions?

Some examples of sequences of functions include the Fibonacci sequence, the Taylor series, and the geometric sequence. In each of these examples, the functions change as the value of n increases, resulting in a different function for each value of n.

Can a sequence of functions have an infinite number of terms?

Yes, a sequence of functions can have an infinite number of terms. This is often the case when the sequence is defined for n=1 to infinity, as the number of terms will continue to increase as n increases. However, there are also finite sequences of functions, where the number of terms is limited to a specific value of n.

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