Emil's question at Yahoo Answers (Radius of convergence)

In summary, the radius of convergence for the series $\displaystyle\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\dfrac{(x-3)^n}{n3^n}$ is 3 and the series is absolutely convergent when $\left |{x-3}\right |<3$ and divergent when $\left |{x-3}\right |>3$.
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Hello Emil,

Using the ratio test to the series $\displaystyle\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\dfrac{(x-3)^n}{n3^n}$ we get: $$L=\displaystyle\lim_{n \to\infty}\left |\dfrac{(x-3)^{n+1}}{(n+1)3^{n+1}}\cdot\dfrac{n3^n}{(x-3)^n}\right |=\dfrac{|x-3|}{3}\displaystyle\lim_{n \to\infty}\frac{n}{n+1}=\dfrac{|x-3|}{3}$$ If $\left |{x-3}\right |/3<1$ (or equivalently $\left |{x-3}\right |<3$) the series is absolutely convergent. If $\left |{x-3}\right |/3>1$ (or equivalently $\left |{x-3}\right |>3$) the series is divergent. As a consequence, the radius of convergence is $R=3.$
 

FAQ: Emil's question at Yahoo Answers (Radius of convergence)

What is the radius of convergence?

The radius of convergence is a mathematical concept used in power series to determine the values of the input variable for which the series converges. It represents the distance from the center of the series to the nearest point where the series still converges.

How is the radius of convergence calculated?

The radius of convergence can be calculated using the ratio test or the root test. The ratio test compares the absolute value of the ratio of consecutive terms in the series to a limit, while the root test compares the nth root of the absolute value of each term to a limit. The limit in both tests should be taken as the input variable approaches the center of the series.

Can the radius of convergence be negative?

No, the radius of convergence cannot be negative. It represents a distance and therefore must be a positive value. However, the series may not converge for all values within the radius, as it may have a different radius of convergence in different directions.

What is the significance of the radius of convergence?

The radius of convergence is important because it tells us the values of the input variable for which the power series will converge. It also helps us determine the interval of convergence, which is the range of values for the input variable where the series converges.

How can the radius of convergence be used?

The radius of convergence can be used to approximate the value of a function within the interval of convergence. It can also be used to determine the convergence or divergence of a series, and to find the range of values for which the series will converge. In addition, it is a useful tool in many areas of mathematics, such as calculus, differential equations, and complex analysis.

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