Limit of Finite Sum: Solving the Convergence for a Series with Zero Sum

In summary, the conversation discusses determining a limit involving a sum and a square root, with the condition that the sum equals 0. Various attempts at solving the limit are mentioned and ultimately, the solution involves splitting the sum into positive and negative members and finding upper and lower bounds to show that the limit approaches zero.
  • #1
dobry_den
115
0

Homework Statement



Hey, I'm trying to determine the following limit:

[tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty}\sum_{j=0}^k{a_j\sqrt{n+j}}[/tex]

where

[tex]\sum_{j=0}^k{a_j}=0[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to go this way:

[tex]\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty}\sqrt{n+k}\sum_{j=0}^k{a_j\frac{\sqrt{n+j}}{\sqrt{n+k}}}[/tex]

but still I get 0*infinity, which is undefined.
 
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  • #2
Let M be the sum of all of the positive a_j, so the sum of all the negative a_j is -M. Now split the sum into the sum of all the positive members, call it Sp and the sum of all the negative members, call it Sn. So the whole sum is Sp+Sn. Convince yourself that Sp<=M*sqrt(n+k) and Sn<=(-M)*sqrt(n). So an upper bound for the sum is M(sqrt(n+k)-sqrt(n)). Show that approaches zero. Now find a lower bound and repeat.
 
  • #3
Oh yes, thanks a lot!
 

FAQ: Limit of Finite Sum: Solving the Convergence for a Series with Zero Sum

What is the definition of a limit of a finite sum?

The limit of a finite sum refers to the value that a sequence of partial sums approaches as the number of terms in the sum increases towards infinity. It is denoted by the symbol ∑n→∞.

How is the limit of a finite sum calculated?

The limit of a finite sum can be calculated by taking the sum of an infinite number of terms, each with a smaller value, until the difference between the partial sum and the limit becomes infinitesimally small. This process is known as taking the limit of a sequence.

What is the significance of the limit of a finite sum in mathematics?

The limit of a finite sum is a fundamental concept in calculus and has many applications in areas such as physics, engineering, and economics. It is used to determine the behavior of a function at certain points and to calculate important values such as derivatives and integrals.

Can the limit of a finite sum be infinite?

Yes, the limit of a finite sum can be infinite if the terms in the sum increase without bound. This can occur when the terms in the sum do not approach a specific value, but instead continue to increase or decrease without limit.

Are there different types of limits for finite sums?

Yes, there are different types of limits for finite sums, such as the left-hand limit, right-hand limit, and double-sided limit. These types of limits depend on the direction from which the terms in the sum approach the limit and are used to determine the continuity of a function at a specific point.

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