Series Convergence Tests: Arctan and Grouped Terms

In summary, the first problem can be solved using the limit comparison test with 1/n, which yields a divergent series. For the second problem, grouping every 3 terms and using the comparison test is inconclusive as the 2nd and 3rd terms make the series smaller, but it is unclear if this smaller series is convergent or divergent. More information and algebraic manipulation is needed to determine the convergence or divergence of the series.
  • #1
freshman2013
43
0

Homework Statement




1. Determine if arctan(7+1/n)-arctan(7) converges or diverges

2. Determine if 2/1-1/2-1/3+2/4-1/5/-1/6+2/7... converge or diverge

Homework Equations



series tests


The Attempt at a Solution



1.My gut instinct is to do limit comparison test w/ 1/n, and it worked and I got divergent, but I really don't get why.
2. I did a similar problem in which we group every 3 terms. However, in class, the 2nd and 3rd terms were >0 and every third term combined made a divergent series, so comparision test yields divergent. But in this series, the 2nd and 3rd terms would make the series 0 to inf 2/(3n-2) smaller and it's inconclusive whether smaller than divergent is convergent or divergent.
 
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  • #2
freshman2013 said:

Homework Statement




1. Determine if arctan(7+1/n)-arctan(7) converges or diverges

2. Determine if 2/1-1/2-1/3+2/4-1/5/-1/6+2/7... converge or diverge

Homework Equations



series tests


The Attempt at a Solution



1.My gut instinct is to do limit comparison test w/ 1/n, and it worked and I got divergent, but I really don't get why.
2. I did a similar problem in which we group every 3 terms. However, in class, the 2nd and 3rd terms were >0 and every third term combined made a divergent series, so comparision test yields divergent. But in this series, the 2nd and 3rd terms would make the series 0 to inf 2/(3n-2) smaller and it's inconclusive whether smaller than divergent is convergent or divergent.

You need to show some more of your work to get an answer. How did get a comparison with 1/n. And for the second one what's the expression for the sum of the 3 grouped terms in terms of n? Do some algebra to combine them.
 

FAQ: Series Convergence Tests: Arctan and Grouped Terms

What does it mean for a series to be convergent?

A series is considered convergent if the sum of its terms approaches a finite value as the number of terms approaches infinity. In other words, the series has a definite limit and does not diverge.

How can I determine if a series is convergent or divergent?

There are several tests that can be used to determine the convergence or divergence of a series. Some common tests include the ratio test, root test, and integral test. It is important to note that these tests do not always provide a definite answer, so it may be necessary to use multiple tests to confirm the convergence or divergence of a series.

What is the significance of a convergent series?

A convergent series is important in mathematics because it allows us to calculate the sum of infinitely many terms. This has many applications, such as in the fields of physics and engineering, where infinite series are often used to model real-world phenomena.

Can a series be both convergent and divergent?

No, a series can only be either convergent or divergent, but not both. If a series is convergent, it means that the sum of its terms approaches a finite value, while a divergent series does not have a finite sum and may approach infinity or oscillate.

What is the difference between absolute and conditional convergence?

Absolute convergence means that the series is convergent regardless of the order of its terms, while conditional convergence means that the series is only convergent when its terms are arranged in a specific order. In other words, a series that is absolutely convergent is also conditionally convergent, but the reverse is not necessarily true.

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