Is the following sum a part of any known generalized function?

In summary, the inquiry seeks to determine whether a specific sum can be classified within the framework of established generalized functions, exploring its mathematical properties and potential connections to known theories or concepts in functional analysis.
  • #1
tworitdash
108
26
I have a sum that looks like the following:

## \sum_{k = 0}^{\infty} \left( \frac{A}{A + k} \right)^{\eta} \frac{z^k}{k!} ##

Here, [itex]A[/itex] is positive real.

If [itex]\eta[/itex] is an integer, this can be written as:

## \sum_{k = 0}^{\infty} \left( \frac{A(A +1)(A+2) \cdots (A + k - 1)}{(A + 1)(A+2)(A+3) \cdots (A + k)} \right)^{\eta} \frac{z^k}{k!} ##

This is known to be a generalized hypergeometric function with [itex]\eta[/itex] number of argument of type 1 and type 2 as well.

## \sum_{k = 0}^{\infty} \left( \frac{A(A +1)(A+2) \cdots (A + k - 1)}{(A + 1)(A+2)(A+3) \cdots (A + k)} \right)^{\eta} \frac{z^k}{k!} = _{\eta}F_{\eta} \left( A, A, A, ..., A; A+1, A+1, A+1, ... , A+1; z \right) ##

However, this is possible because [itex]\eta[/itex] is an integer. Can I approximate it to a nice form when it is not an integer? Or, can we determine where this infinite sum converges with some techniques?
 
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  • #2
The radius of convergence is given by [tex]
\lim_{k \to \infty} \left| \frac{\left(\frac{A}{A + k}\right)^\eta\frac{1}{k!}}{\left(\frac{A}{A + k + 1}\right)^\eta\frac{1}{(k+1)!}} \right| = \lim_{k \to \infty} \left|\left(1 + \frac{1}{A + k}\right)^{\eta}(k+1)\right| = \infty.[/tex]
 
  • Like
Likes e_jane and tworitdash
  • #3
pasmith said:
The radius of convergence is given by [tex] \lim_{k \to \infty} \left| \frac{\left(\frac{A}{A + k}\right)^\eta\frac{1}{k!}}{\left(\frac{A}{A + k + 1}\right)^\eta\frac{1}{(k+1)!}} \right| = \lim_{k \to \infty} \left|\left(1 + \frac{1}{A + k}\right)^{\eta}(k+1)\right| = \infty.[/tex]
So, it is an absolutely converging function. That I get it as well. Is there a possibility to get an asymptotic value of this sum for non-integer [itex] \eta [/itex], as a function of [itex] \eta [/itex], and [itex] A [/itex]?
 

FAQ: Is the following sum a part of any known generalized function?

What is a generalized function?

A generalized function, also known as a distribution, is a mathematical object that extends the concept of functions to include entities like Dirac's delta function and Heaviside step function. Generalized functions can represent phenomena that cannot be captured by traditional functions, particularly in the context of differential equations and signal processing.

How can I determine if a sum is a generalized function?

To determine if a sum is a generalized function, you should analyze its convergence properties, continuity, and behavior under integration and differentiation. If the sum can be expressed in terms of known distributions or can be manipulated to fit the framework of distributions, it may be classified as a generalized function.

What are some common examples of generalized functions?

Common examples of generalized functions include the Dirac delta function, which represents an infinitely high and narrow peak at a point, and the Heaviside step function, which represents a discontinuous jump. Other examples include distributions like the Sobolev space functions and tempered distributions used in Fourier analysis.

What role do generalized functions play in physics and engineering?

Generalized functions are crucial in physics and engineering, particularly in fields such as quantum mechanics, signal processing, and control theory. They allow for the modeling of point sources, impulses, and other phenomena that require a more flexible mathematical framework than traditional functions can provide.

Are there any specific criteria to classify a sum as a known generalized function?

Yes, specific criteria include examining the sum's behavior under limits, its representation in terms of known distributions, and its ability to be integrated against test functions. If the sum can be expressed or approximated using established generalized functions or can be shown to satisfy the properties of distributions, it can be classified accordingly.

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