To what value do these series converge?

In summary, the series sin(n)/n and cos(n)/n converge to the value of zero. This can be shown using Dirichlet's test and a Fourier trigonometric series. Additionally, integrating the sum from 0 to 1 can help evaluate the series. By differentiating the Fourier cosine series and substituting 1, the sum of sin(n)/n can be calculated. However, evaluating cos(n)/n remains a challenge and can possibly be solved by substituting in the sum of z^n/n and e^{int}/n and taking the real and imaginary parts.
  • #1
defunc
55
0
Consider these series:
sin(n)/n; and
cos(n)/n.
To what value do they converge? You can use Diriclet's test to show that they do converge, but to what? I think I should use a Fourier trigonometric series, but not certain how.
 
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  • #2
Without ado, the answer must be "zero", because sin(n) and cos(n) can only have values between -1 to +1, while n tends to infinity.
 
  • #3
I meant series, not sequence. With summation n = 1 to infinity. Sorry for any confusion.
 
  • #4
Note: I'm not sure if this actually works, but it's an idea.

_____________________________________________________

[tex]\sum[/tex] cos kx = -.5 + (.5sin[(2n +1)x/2)] )/sin x/2

So, if you integrate the sum, from 0 to 1, you should get

[tex]\sum[/tex] (sin k)/k , which is the sum you want, so integrate the other side from 0 to 1.
 
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  • #5
Thanks for the idea. I am having a hard time to find a way to integrate that expression. Meantime I was able to calculate the series sin(n)/n by differentiating the fouries cosine series cos(nx)/n^2 and substituting 1. It equates to pi/2-1
/2. I am still stuck trying to evaluate cos(n)/n however.
 
  • #6
First evaluate [itex] \sum z^n/n[/itex] then substitute in that to evaluate [itex] \sum e^{int}/n[/itex], then take real and imaginary parts to get [itex] \sum \cos(nt)/n[/itex] and [itex] \sum \sin(nt)/n[/itex]
 

FAQ: To what value do these series converge?

What is the definition of convergence for a series?

The definition of convergence for a series is the idea that as we add more and more terms in the series, the sum of those terms will approach a finite value.

How do you determine the convergence of a series?

To determine the convergence of a series, we can use various tests such as the ratio test, the root test, or the comparison test. These tests help us determine if the series is convergent or divergent.

What is the difference between absolute and conditional convergence?

Absolute convergence means that the series converges regardless of the order in which the terms are added, while conditional convergence means that the order of the terms affects the convergence of the series. In other words, absolute convergence is more strict than conditional convergence.

Can a series converge to multiple values?

No, a series can only converge to one value. If a series converges to multiple values, it is actually considered divergent.

What is the significance of determining the convergence of a series?

Determining the convergence of a series is important in many areas of mathematics and science, as it allows us to understand the behavior of a series and make predictions based on that behavior. It is also a fundamental concept in calculus and helps us solve many real-world problems.

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