Proving convergence of infinite series

In summary, by using the absolute convergence test and the comparison test, it can be concluded that the series \sum \frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}} converges as n -> infinity.
  • #1
utleysthrow
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Homework Statement



[tex]\sum \frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}[/tex]

Does this series converge as n -> infinity?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



First, by the absolute convergence test, [tex]\sum \frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}[/tex] should converge if [tex]\sum \left|\frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}\right|[/tex] converges.



Second, [tex]\sum \left|\frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}\right| = \frac{1}{n+n^{2}}< \sum 1/n^{2}[/tex]

Because the sum 1/n^2 converges, by the comparison test, [tex]\sum \left|\frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}\right|[/tex] converges.

Which means that [tex]\sum \frac{(-1)^{n}}{n+n^{2}}[/tex] converges as well (by the absolute convergence test).
 
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  • #2
Your proof appears to be valid.
 

FAQ: Proving convergence of infinite series

What is convergence of an infinite series?

Convergence of an infinite series is a mathematical concept that refers to whether or not the sum of all the terms in a series approaches a finite number as the number of terms approaches infinity.

How do you prove convergence of an infinite series?

There are various methods for proving convergence of an infinite series, such as the comparison test, the ratio test, and the integral test. These tests involve comparing the given series to a known convergent or divergent series and using properties of limits to determine the convergence or divergence of the given series.

What is the role of the limit in proving convergence of an infinite series?

The limit is a crucial concept in proving convergence of an infinite series. It is used to determine whether the terms of the series approach a finite value as the number of terms approaches infinity. If the limit is a finite number, then the series is said to converge; if the limit is infinity or does not exist, then the series is said to diverge.

Can a series converge to more than one value?

No, a series can only converge to a single value. The value to which the series converges is called the limit of the series. If a series has multiple limit points, it is said to have an oscillating or diverging limit.

What is the importance of proving convergence of an infinite series?

Proving convergence of an infinite series is important because it allows us to determine the behavior of the series as the number of terms increases. This is useful in many areas of mathematics, such as calculus, where infinite series are used to represent functions. Understanding the convergence of a series can also help us make decisions about the accuracy and validity of numerical calculations involving infinite series.

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