Use the appropriate test to decide if they converge

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In summary, the conversation discusses different series and which tests can be used to determine their convergence. The n-th term test for divergence is suggested for the first series, while the comparison test or root test can be used for the second and third series. The final series is noted to converge absolutely due to the sin term not affecting the convergence. For the first series, it is concluded that it does not converge since the terms do not tend to zero. The n-th term test is briefly explained as a way to determine convergence based on the behavior of the terms.
  • #1
Natasha1
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Use the appropriate test to decide whether the following serie converges or not:

[tex]\sum \limit_{n=1} ^{\infty} \frac{3n^2 - 2n +1}{2n^2 + 5}[/tex]
 
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  • #2
Try the n-th term test for divergence.
 
  • #3
LeonhardEuler said:
Try the n-th term test for divergence.

What about these ones:

b) [tex]\sum \limit_{n=1} ^{\infty} \frac{3n^2 - 2n + 1}{2n^4 + 5}[/tex]

c) [tex]\sum \limit_{n=1} ^{\infty} \frac{n^3 4^n}{3(n!)}[/tex]

d) [tex]\sum \limit_{n=1} ^{\infty} \frac{2 + 3 sin~n}{5n^2 + 2}[/tex]
 
  • #4
When you look at b, you should see that for large n it behaves like [itex]\frac{1}{2n^2}[/itex]. What test will let you use that fact?

c) is pretty straght foward. When you see everything in with powers and factorials you should think of the comparison test or the root test.

d)Similar to b). The sin basically has no effect because the series that this looks like converges absolutely.
 
  • #5
LeonhardEuler said:
When you look at b, you should see that for large n it behaves like [itex]\frac{1}{2n^2}[/itex]. What test will let you use that fact?

c) is pretty straght foward. When you see everything in with powers and factorials you should think of the comparison test or the root test.

d)Similar to b). The sin basically has no effect because the series that this looks like converges absolutely.

For a) can I just say this series does not converge as a_n does not tend to zero as n --> infinity but to 2/3 instead.

I have never heard of this n-th term test. Could someone quickly do it for a) please, just so I can understand it. Much appreciated :-)
 
  • #6
The n-th term test can be used exactly like you said. If the terms in the sequence do not approach zero then the series can not converge. That is all you need to say.
 

FAQ: Use the appropriate test to decide if they converge

What is the purpose of using an appropriate test to decide if a series converges?

The purpose of using an appropriate test is to determine whether a series, which is an infinite sum of terms, has a finite limit or not. This is important in many areas of mathematics and science, as it helps us to understand the behavior and properties of a given series.

How do I know which test to use to decide if a series converges?

There are several tests available for determining convergence of a series, including the comparison test, ratio test, and integral test. The best way to determine which test to use is to consider the type of series you are dealing with and the properties of the terms within the series. It may also be helpful to consult a table or guide that outlines the different tests and when they are most useful.

Can a series converge using one test, but diverge using another?

Yes, it is possible for a series to converge using one test and diverge using another. This is because different tests have different criteria for determining convergence and may apply to different types of series. It is important to use multiple tests to confirm the convergence or divergence of a series.

What happens if a series does not converge using any of the available tests?

If a series does not converge using any of the available tests, it is considered to be divergent. This means that the terms within the series do not approach a finite limit and the series does not have a definite sum. In this case, the series may still have some interesting properties and can be studied further using techniques such as partial sums or Cesàro summation.

Are there any shortcuts or tricks for determining convergence of a series?

While there may be some shortcuts or tricks for specific types of series, it is generally best to use the available tests to determine convergence. These tests have been rigorously developed and proven to be accurate in determining the convergence or divergence of a series. It is important to carefully apply the appropriate test and follow the necessary steps to accurately determine the convergence of a series.

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