Series, find Divergence or Convergence

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the divergence or convergence of a series using various tests such as the ratio test, comparison test, limit comparison test, and integral test. The specific series in question is \sum^{∞}_{n=1}\frac{2n^2+3n}{\sqrt{5+n^5}}. After attempting the ratio test and getting an inconclusive result, suggestions are made to try the comparison test and factorizing the series. Using the p-series test, it is determined that the series diverges.
  • #1
CitizenInsane
6
0

Homework Statement



Find the Divergence or Convergence of the series

[itex]\sum[/itex][itex]^{∞}_{n=1}[/itex][itex]\frac{2n^2+3n}{\sqrt{5+n^5}}[/itex]

Homework Equations



Ratio Test, Comparison Test, Limit Comparison Test, Integral test etc.

The Attempt at a Solution



This question was on my final exam and the only question of which I couldn't actually figure out. I tried the ratio test multiple times and ended getting L=1 which is no info multiple times. I figured the comparison test was the right approach but had no idea what series to compare it to.
 
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  • #2
You could compare it to: [tex]\frac{2n^2}{\sqrt{n^5}}[/tex]Or you could try factorizing it by taking out [itex]n^2[/itex] from the numerator and denominator.
 
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  • #3
sharks said:
You could compare it to: [tex]\frac{2n^2}{\sqrt{n^5}}[/tex]Or you could try factorizing it by taking out [itex]n^2[/itex] from the numerator and denominator.

Can you expand on your suggestions? I am utterly clueless with respect to this problem.
 
  • #4
Taking out [itex]n^2[/itex] from the numerator and denominator:[tex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=1}\frac{2+\frac{3}{n}}{\sqrt{5/n^4 + n}}[/tex]Well, the nth-term test is not useful here, as the limit is 0.
 
  • #5
sharks said:
Taking out [itex]n^2[/itex] from the numerator and denominator:[tex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=1}\frac{2+\frac{3}{n}}{\sqrt{5/n^4 + n}}[/tex]Well, the nth-term test is not useful here, as the limit is 0.

Ye I was about to say that lol.
 
  • #6
CitizenInsane said:
Ye I was about to say that lol.
You should always try with the simpler tests first. :smile:

Using the comparison test: [tex]u_n=\frac{2n^2+3n}{\sqrt{5+n^5}}[/tex][tex]v_n=\frac{2n^2}{\sqrt{n^5}}=\frac{2}{n^{1/2}}[/tex]Now, use the p-series test and the series ##v_n## diverges.
Since [itex]v_n \le u_n[/itex] and [itex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=1}v_n[/itex] diverges, therefore the original series diverges.
 
  • #7
sharks said:
You should always try with the simpler tests first. :smile:

Using the comparison test: [tex]u_n=\frac{2n^2+3n}{\sqrt{5+n^5}}[/tex][tex]v_n=\frac{2n^2}{\sqrt{n^5}}=\frac{2}{n^{1/2}}[/tex]Now, use the p-series test and the series ##v_n## diverges.
Since [itex]v_n \le u_n[/itex] and [itex]\sum^{\infty}_{n=1}v_n[/itex] diverges, therefore the original series diverges.

Thanks.
 

FAQ: Series, find Divergence or Convergence

What is the definition of convergence and divergence in a series?

Convergence and divergence refer to the behavior of a series as the number of terms increases. A series is said to converge if the terms approach a finite limit as the number of terms increases, while a series is said to diverge if the terms do not approach a finite limit.

How do you 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, such as the ratio test, the root test, and the integral test. These tests involve analyzing the behavior of the terms as the number of terms increases and comparing them to known convergent or divergent series.

What is the significance of convergence and divergence in series?

The convergence or divergence of a series is important in determining the overall behavior and value of the series. A convergent series has a finite sum, which can be useful in calculations and applications. On the other hand, a divergent series does not have a finite sum and can be more difficult to work with.

Can a series be both convergent and divergent?

No, a series can only be either convergent or divergent, not both. A series cannot approach a finite limit and not approach a finite limit at the same time. However, it is possible for a series to be conditionally convergent, meaning that it converges but the sum changes depending on the order in which the terms are added.

How can the convergence or divergence of a series be applied in real-world situations?

The concept of convergence and divergence in series can be applied in various fields such as physics, engineering, and finance. For example, in finance, the concept of compound interest can be represented as a series and its convergence or divergence can determine the overall growth or loss of an investment.

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