Limit of Sequence: Find n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n}))

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the limit of n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n})) and the use of asymptotic substitution. The correct answer is 3/2, which is obtained by using a substitution of x=1/n and expanding terms in a series. It is noted that substituting an asymptotic sequence may not always yield the correct answer.
  • #1
Dansuer
81
1

Homework Statement



Find the limit of [itex]n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n}))[/itex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



since cos(1/n) is asymptotic to 1. [itex]n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n}))[/itex] ~ [itex]n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - 1)[/itex] ~ [itex]n^2 \frac{1}{n^2})[/itex] = 1
The right answer is 3/2 though. I don't see what's wrong with my reasoning. Maybe i used asymptotic in an illegitimate way. What's the problem?
 
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  • #2
You have to be a little more careful than that.
Try switching over to x = 1/n, then it will be the limit for x going to zero.
If you expand both terms inside the brackets in a series around 0, you can throw away terms of order x4 and you will arrive at the right answer.
 
  • #3
Thanks, that way i solved it.
I also found what i did wrong with asymptotic. I though that when a sequence is asymptotic with another you could just substitute one with the other. But it's not true. in this case. [itex]cos(1/n) [/itex]~ [itex]1[/itex] but [itex]e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n})[/itex] ~[itex] \frac{3}{2} e^\frac{1}{n^2} - 1[/itex].

[itex]e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n})[/itex] ~[itex]e^\frac{1}{n^2} - 1[/itex] This is not true.
 

FAQ: Limit of Sequence: Find n^2(e^\frac{1}{n^2} - cos(\frac{1}{n}))

What is the limit of the given sequence?

The limit of the given sequence is 1.

How do you find the limit of a sequence?

To find the limit of a sequence, you can use the limit laws, algebraic manipulations, or special techniques such as the squeeze theorem or L'Hospital's rule.

3. What is the significance of the limit of a sequence?

The limit of a sequence represents the value that the terms of the sequence approach as the number of terms increases. It helps in understanding the behavior and pattern of the sequence.

4. Can the limit of a sequence be any real number?

No, the limit of a sequence can be any real number, infinity, or not exist at all. It depends on the behavior of the terms of the sequence as n approaches infinity.

5. How does the given sequence relate to real-world applications?

The given sequence can be used to model various physical phenomena such as the oscillation of a spring, temperature variations, or population growth. It can also be applied in finance, engineering, and other fields to predict future outcomes based on past data.

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