Finding the Limit of an Infinite Sum Series | n->infinity

In summary, to find the limit of the given series, we first find the general term, which is (2n-1)/2^n. Then, we can express the series as the sum of two separate series, where the first one (n/2^{n-1}) is a geometric series, and the second one ((2n-1)/2^n) is not as simple. To solve for the second series, we can use the formula for the sum of a series, and by substituting the appropriate variables, we can simplify and find the limit.
  • #1
Dell
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how do i find the limit for the following , where n->infinity

1/2 + 3/4 + 5/8 + 7/16 +9/32 +...

i see that the numerator starts at 1 and has jumps of +2, giving me all the odd numbers

the denominator starts at 2 with jumps of *2 giving all the powers of 2

so i have... + (2n-1)/2^n

but how do i find the sum of the series? where n=infinity

??

if i had one fraction, (1+3+5+7+9...)/(2+4+8+16...) then i know i could use the equations for sum of a series, but how do i dela with each one as its own fraction.

i am looking for the lim of the sum, not the lim of (2n-1)/2^n

lim[tex]\sum[/tex](2n-1)/2^n
 
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  • #2
Well, you did the first step correctly, in finding the general term. Now, if we split the numerator, the second term is just a geometric series, whilst the first term, [itex] n/2^{n-1}[/itex] is not quite as easy. To do this, we must use the result

[tex]\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} nr^{n-1} = \frac{1}{(r-1)^2} [/tex]. Play around with it, see what you can substitute to get it to fit what you have.
 
  • #3
i took a bit of a different route, getting there but I am stuck. maybe you can help me with my way before i try yours

the sum S is

S = 1/2 + 3/4 + 5/8 + 7/16 +9/32 +... (2n-1)/2^n

now i take double that and i get
2S = 1 + 3/2 + 5/4 + 7/8 + 9/16 +...(4n-2)/2^n

now if i subtract 2S-S i get
2S = 1 + 3/2 + 5/4 + 7/8 + 9/16 +...(4n-2)/2^n
S =//// 1/2 + 3/4 + 5/8 + 7/16 +9/32 +... (2n-1)/2^n

as you see, if i subtract S from 2S all the middle fractions have a matching one (eg, 3/2 -1/2 =2/2 5/4 -3/4=2/4 etc) only the 1 from 2S and the (2n-1)/2^n from S are left with the sequence (2/2 +2/4 +2/8...)

2S – S = 1 + 2/2 + 2/4 + 2/8 + …2/2^n - (2n-1)/2^n

S = 1 + 2*( 1/2 + 1/4 + 1/8 …) - (2n-1)/2^n

now i know that 2*( 1/2 + 1/4 + 1/8 …) =2*1=2
so

S=1+2-(2n-1)/2^n
=3-(2n-1)/2^n


only that the answer is wrong, and the correct one is

3-(2n+3)/2^n

can you see where i have gone wrong??
 

FAQ: Finding the Limit of an Infinite Sum Series | n->infinity

What is a limit of infinity?

A limit of infinity, or infinite limit, refers to the behavior of a function as its input approaches infinity. It describes the value that the function approaches, but does not necessarily reach, as the input gets larger and larger.

How is a limit of infinity calculated?

The calculation of a limit of infinity depends on the type of function. For polynomials, the limit can be found by dividing the leading term in the numerator by the leading term in the denominator. For rational functions, the limit can be found by dividing the coefficients of the highest degree terms in the numerator and denominator. Other types of functions may require different methods of calculation.

What does it mean if a limit of infinity is infinite?

If a limit of infinity is infinite, it means that the function continues to increase or decrease without bound as the input approaches infinity. In other words, the function has no maximum or minimum value and will continue to get larger or smaller without limit.

What does it mean if a limit of infinity is undefined?

If a limit of infinity is undefined, it means that the function does not approach a specific value as the input approaches infinity. This could be due to a vertical asymptote, a discontinuity, or a non-existent limit at infinity.

Why are limits of infinity important in mathematics and science?

Limits of infinity are important in mathematics and science because they help us understand the behavior of functions and how they change as their inputs get larger or smaller. They also allow us to make predictions and analyze the behavior of complex systems, such as in calculus, physics, and engineering.

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