Does This Sequence Have a Limit?

  • Thread starter twoflower
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Limit
In summary, the conversation discussed finding the limit of a sequence that involves (-1)^n and square roots. It was concluded that the limit does not exist, but it can be seen by looking at the even and odd terms separately. Additionally, the speaker recommended considering n odd and even when dealing with (-1)^n.
  • #1
twoflower
368
0
Hi,

suppose this sequence:

[tex]
(-1)^{n} \sqrt{n} \left( \sqrt{n+1} - \sqrt{n} \right)
[/tex]

I tried to find the limit and got into this point:

[tex]
\lim \frac{n(-1)^{n}}{ \sqrt{n(n+1)} + n}
[/tex]

According to results, the limit doesn't exist. But how can I find it out? Can it be visible from the point I got to?

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
take the even terms, they tend to 1. take the odd terms they tend to -1
 
  • #3
matt grime said:
take the even terms, they tend to 1. take the odd terms they tend to -1

Thank you matt, it's clear now. I see my approach is unnecessarilly complicated..
 
  • #4
Whenever you see a (-1)^n always think about n odd and n even to see what happens.
 
  • #5
matt grime said:
take the even terms, they tend to 1. take the odd terms they tend to -1

Don't they happen to tend to -1/2 or to 1/2, respectively?
 

FAQ: Does This Sequence Have a Limit?

Why doesn't this have a limit?

The concept of a limit is dependent on certain conditions and assumptions. In many cases, it is not possible or necessary to impose a limit on a particular phenomenon or process.

Is there a limit to everything?

No, not necessarily. There are some things that may not have a limit, such as the size of the universe or the amount of information that can be stored. It ultimately depends on the context and the specific conditions being considered.

Can't we always find a limit?

In theory, yes. However, in practice, it may not always be feasible or necessary to determine a limit. In some cases, the limit may not even exist or may be impossible to calculate.

Why do some things have limits while others don't?

The existence of a limit depends on the underlying principles and laws governing a particular phenomenon. Some processes or systems may have inherent constraints that lead to a limit, while others may not. It is a complex and context-dependent issue.

How do we know when to apply a limit and when not to?

Determining when to apply a limit is a decision that needs to be made based on the specific situation and goals. In scientific research, limits are often used as a tool to better understand and analyze a phenomenon, but they may not always be necessary or relevant.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top