Mathematics I

Chapter 10

Dr. Devendra Kumar

Department of Mathematics
Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
20152016
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

CHAPTER 10
Infinite Series
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

In this Chapter, we are going to learn about Infinite

series and their convergence properties. We will be
discussing the following topics:
Sequences (Certain Theorems on Sequences)

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

In this Chapter, we are going to learn about Infinite

series and their convergence properties. We will be
discussing the following topics:
Sequences (Certain Theorems on Sequences)
Infinite Series

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

In this Chapter, we are going to learn about Infinite

series and their convergence properties. We will be
discussing the following topics:
Sequences (Certain Theorems on Sequences)
Infinite Series
Integral Test

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

In this Chapter, we are going to learn about Infinite

series and their convergence properties. We will be
discussing the following topics:
Sequences (Certain Theorems on Sequences)
Infinite Series
Integral Test
Comparison Tests

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ratio and Root Tests

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ratio and Root Tests

Alternating Series

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ratio and Root Tests

Alternating Series
Power Series

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ratio and Root Tests

Alternating Series
Power Series
Taylor & Maclaurin Series

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.1
Sequences [Self Study]

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Sequence
A function whose domain is the set of natural
numbers ( f : N R) is called a sequence of real
numbers. We write f ( n) = a n , then the sequence is
denoted by {a1 , a2 , . . .} or by {a n }
n=1 or simply by {a n }.
We call a n the nth term of the sequence or the value
of the sequence at n.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
{n} = {1, 2, 3, . . . , n, . . .}

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
{n} = {1, 2, 3, . . . , n, . . .}
1 1 1

1
=
1
,
,
,
.
.
.
,
,
.
.
.
n
2 3
n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
{n} = {1, 2, 3, . . . , n, . . .}
1 1 1

1
=
1
,
,
,
.
.
.
,
,
.
.
.
n
2 3
n

(1)n+1 = {1, 1, 1, 1, . . . , (1)n+1 , . . .}

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
{n} = {1, 2, 3, . . . , n, . . .}
1 1 1

1
=
1
,
,
,
.
.
.
,
,
.
.
.
n
2 3
n

(1)n+1 = {1, 1, 1, 1, . . . , (1)n+1 , . . .}

1 n1 = 0, 12 , 23 , . . . , 1 n1 , . . .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Convergent Sequence
A sequence {a n } is said to converge to a number L, if
for every positive number , however small, we can
find a positive integer N (depending on ) such that
|a n L| < , n > N.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If no such number L exists, the sequence is said to

diverge.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If no such number L exists, the sequence is said to

diverge.
If {a n } converges to L, then we write lim a n = L or
n
simply a n L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If no such number L exists, the sequence is said to

diverge.
If {a n } converges to L, then we write lim a n = L or
n
simply a n L.
The number L is called the limit of the sequence.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If no such number L exists, the sequence is said to

diverge.
If {a n } converges to L, then we write lim a n = L or
n
simply a n L.
The number L is called the limit of the sequence.
A sequence can not converges to more than one
limit i.e., Limit of a sequence is unique.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Graphical Representation

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Graphical Representation

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1

The sequence n converges to the number 0

(using Archimedean property).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1

The sequence n converges to the number 0

(using Archimedean property).
The sequence {n} diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1

The sequence n converges to the number 0

(using Archimedean property).
The sequence {n} diverges.
n
o
(1)n
The sequence
converges to the number 0
n
(using Archimedean property).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1

The sequence n converges to the number 0

(using Archimedean property).
The sequence {n} diverges.
n
o
(1)n
The sequence
converges to the number 0
n
(using Archimedean property).

The sequence 1 + n1 converges to the number 1

(using Archimedean property).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1

The sequence n converges to the number 0

(using Archimedean property).
The sequence {n} diverges.
n
o
(1)n
The sequence
converges to the number 0
n
(using Archimedean property).

The sequence 1 + n1 converges to the number 1

(using Archimedean property).
The sequence {(1)n } diverges.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 1.)

Let {a n } and {b n } be two convergent sequences. Then
1

lim ka n = k lim a n

lim(a n b n ) = lim a n lim b n

lim(a n .b n ) = lim a n . lim b n

an
lim ab nn = lim
lim b n , if b n , 0 for all n and lim b n , 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 2. Sandwich Theorem or

Squeeze Theorem)
Let {a n }, {b n }, and { c n } be sequences of real numbers.
If a n b n c n for all n N and if lim a n = lim c n = L,
then lim b n = L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 2. Sandwich Theorem or

Squeeze Theorem)
Let {a n }, {b n }, and { c n } be sequences of real numbers.
If a n b n c n for all n N and if lim a n = lim c n = L,
then lim b n = L.
Q:63 Find lim nnn! (If exists).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 2. Sandwich Theorem or

Squeeze Theorem)
Let {a n }, {b n }, and { c n } be sequences of real numbers.
If a n b n c n for all n N and if lim a n = lim c n = L,
then lim b n = L.
Q:63 Find lim nnn! (If exists).
1)(n2)...3.2.1
Sol. 0 < nnn! = n(nn.n.n...n.n.n
n1 0. So an
application of Sandwich theorem gives lim nnn! = 0.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 3. Continuous Function

Theorem)
Let {a n } be a sequence of real numbers. If a n L and
if f ( x) is a function that is continuous at x = L and
defined at all a n , then f (a n ) f (L).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 3. Continuous Function

Theorem)
Let {a n } be a sequence of real numbers. If a n L and
if f ( x) is a function that is continuous at x = L and
defined at all a n , then f (a n ) f (L).
Q:43 Find lim sin

Devendra Kumar

1
+
2
n (If exists).

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 3. Continuous Function

Theorem)
Let {a n } be a sequence of real numbers. If a n L and
if f ( x) is a function that is continuous at x = L and
defined at all a n , then f (a n ) f (L).

Q:43 Find lim sin 2 + n1 (If exists).

Sol. Let a n = 2 + n1 . Then

1
1

lim a n = lim +
= lim + lim = .
2 n
2
n 2
So using
function theorem
continuous

lim sin 2 + n = sin 2 = 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 4.)

Suppose that f ( x) is a function defined for all x n0
and that {a n } is a sequence of real numbers s.t.
a n = f ( n) for n n0 , then
lim f ( x) = L lim a n = L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:50 Find lim lnln2nn .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:50 Find lim lnln2nn .

Sol.
ln x
lim
= lim
ln 2 x

1
x
,
2
2x

by LH o spitals rule

= 1.

Hence lim lnln2nn = 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Bounded Sequence
A sequence {a n } is said to be bounded from above if
there exists a number M1 such that

a n M1 , n.
The number M1 is called an upper bound for {a n }.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Bounded Sequence
A sequence {a n } is said to be bounded from above if
there exists a number M1 such that

a n M1 , n.
The number M1 is called an upper bound for {a n }.
Similarly, a sequence {a n } is said to be bounded from
below if there exists a number M2 such that

a n M2 , n.
The number M2 is called a lower bound for {a n }.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Bounded Sequence
A sequence {a n } is said to be bounded if there exists a
number M such that
|a n | M, n.

The number M is called a bound for {a n }.

Examples
n
The sequence n+
1 is bounded below by
bounded above by 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

1
2

and

Mathematics I

Bounded Sequence
A sequence {a n } is said to be bounded if there exists a
number M such that
|a n | M, n.

The number M is called a bound for {a n }.

Examples
n
1
The sequence n+
1 is bounded below by 2 and
bounded above by 1.

The sequence 21n is bounded below by 0 and
bounded above by 12 .
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Nondecreasing/Nonincreasing/Monotonic
Sequence
A sequence {a n } is called a nondecreasing sequence,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is nonincreasing,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is monotonic if it
is either nondecreasing or nonincreasing.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Nondecreasing/Nonincreasing/Monotonic
Sequence
A sequence {a n } is called a nondecreasing sequence,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is nonincreasing,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is monotonic if it
is either nondecreasing or nonincreasing.
Examples
n
The sequence n+1 is nondecreasing.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Nondecreasing/Nonincreasing/Monotonic
Sequence
A sequence {a n } is called a nondecreasing sequence,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is nonincreasing,
if a n a n+1 for all n. The sequence is monotonic if it
is either nondecreasing or nonincreasing.
Examples
n
The sequence n+1 is nondecreasing.
1
The sequence 2n is nonincreasing.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 6. Monotonic Sequence

Theorem)
A bounded monotonic sequence is convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 6. Monotonic Sequence

Theorem)
A bounded monotonic sequence is convergent.
Example
The
and

sequence 1 21n is monotonic (nondecreasing)

bounded (as |a n | 1), therefore it is convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Homework
Using following two facts:
The converse of Theorem 6 is not true.
Every convergent sequence is bounded (Theorem).
Give a counter example of a convergent sequence
which is not monotonic.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.2
Infinite Series
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Infinite series
An infinite series is the sum of the terms of a
sequence. Thus an infinite series consists of infinite
number of real numbers separated by + sign. Thus
for a sequence {a n } the series will be written as

P
a n or simply as
a1 + a2 + a3 + + a n + or as
n =1
P
a n . The number a n is called the nth term of the
series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1 + 12 + 13 + + n1 + (Harmonic Series)

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1 + 12 + 13 + + n1 + (Harmonic Series)
1 1 + 1 1 + + (1)n+1 +

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
1 + 12 + 13 + + n1 + (Harmonic Series)
1 1 + 1 1 + + (1)n+1 +
1 + 212 + 312 + + n12 +

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Sequence of Partial Sums

P
Consider the series a n . The sequence {S n }, defined
by
S n = a1 + a2 + a3 + + a n, n
is called the sequence of partial sums of the series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Sequence of Partial Sums

P
Consider the series a n . The sequence {S n }, defined
by
S n = a1 + a2 + a3 + + a n, n
is called the sequence of partial sums of the series.
The nth term S n of the sequence is called nth partial
sum of the series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Convergent Series
P
A series a n is said to be convergent iff the sequence
{S n } is convergent. If {S n } converges to a real number
P
L, then the series a n also converges to L and the
sum of the series is L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Convergent Series
P
A series a n is said to be convergent iff the sequence
{S n } is convergent. If {S n } converges to a real number
P
L, then the series a n also converges to L and the
sum of the series is L.
A series which is not convergent is called divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Telescoping Series

1
n(n+1)

Here a n = n(n1+1) , the S n can be explicitly evaluated

as follows:
1
1
1
an =
=
.
n( n + 1) n n + 1
Thus

1
1 1
1
1
1
Sn = 1 + + +

= 1
.
2
2 3
n n+1
n+1
P
Thus lim S n = 1 and hence n(n1+1) = 1.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:3 Find the formula for nth partial sum and use it
to find the series sum if the series converges:
1 1 1
1
1 + + + (1)n1 n1 +
2 4 8
2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:3 Find the formula for nth partial sum and use it
to find the series sum if the series converges:
1 1 1
1
1 + + + (1)n1 n1 +
2 4 8
2
Sol. Here S n =
lim S n =

1
1( 12 )

n
1 1 12

1( 12 )
2
3 . Thus

, therefore

1 1 1
1
2
1 + + + (1)n1 n1 + = .
2 4 8
3
2
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
Adding or deleting a finite number of terms in a
series does not alter the behavior (convergence or
divergence) of the series. However the sum of the
series will change in the case of convergent series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

There are two well known series which will be used

quite often:

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

There are two well known series which will be used

quite often:
1

The geometric series:

Devendra Kumar

ar n1 , a , 0.

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

There are two well known series which will be used

quite often:
1

P
The geometric series: ar n1 , a , 0.
P
The p-series: n1p , p R.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem
P
The geometric series ar n1 with a , 0, is
P
a
(i) convergent if |r | < 1 and ar n1 = 1
r.
(ii) divergent if |r | 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem
P
The geometric series ar n1 with a , 0, is
P
a
(i) convergent if |r | < 1 and ar n1 = 1
r.
(ii) divergent if |r | 1.
Proof. Well prove the theorem by using the
definition of convergence. We have
a(1 r n )
2
n 1
S n = a + ar + ar + . . . + ar
=
, r , 1.
1r

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem
P
The geometric series ar n1 with a , 0, is
P
a
(i) convergent if |r | < 1 and ar n1 = 1
r.
(ii) divergent if |r | 1.
Proof. Well prove the theorem by using the
definition of convergence. We have
a(1 r n )
2
n 1
S n = a + ar + ar + . . . + ar
=
, r , 1.
1r
(i) First we consider the case when |r | < 1, in this
a
case r n 0 as n . Therefore, S n 1
r as n ,
and hence the GS is convergent. Also, its sum in this
a
case is 1
r.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

(ii) Now we consider the case when |r | 1. Again we

split this case as |r | > 1 and |r | = 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

(ii) Now we consider the case when |r | 1. Again we

split this case as |r | > 1 and |r | = 1.
Let we first consider |r | > 1: Then r > 1 or r < 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

(ii) Now we consider the case when |r | 1. Again we

split this case as |r | > 1 and |r | = 1.
Let we first consider |r | > 1: Then r > 1 or r < 1.
For r > 1: We have r n as n and hence S n
also tends to or (depending on the sign of
a).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

(ii) Now we consider the case when |r | 1. Again we

split this case as |r | > 1 and |r | = 1.
Let we first consider |r | > 1: Then r > 1 or r < 1.
For r > 1: We have r n as n and hence S n
also tends to or (depending on the sign of
a).
For r < 1: r n oscillates between and and
hence lim S n does not exist.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

(ii) Now we consider the case when |r | 1. Again we

split this case as |r | > 1 and |r | = 1.
Let we first consider |r | > 1: Then r > 1 or r < 1.
For r > 1: We have r n as n and hence S n
also tends to or (depending on the sign of
a).
For r < 1: r n oscillates between and and
hence lim S n does not exist.
Therefore, GS is divergent in this case.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider |r | = 1: Then r = 1 or r = 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider |r | = 1: Then r = 1 or r = 1.

If r = 1, then GS becomes a + a + . . ., so that
S n = na; this tends to or as n
(depending on the sign of a); and hence GS is
divergent in this case also.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider |r | = 1: Then r = 1 or r = 1.

If r = 1, then GS becomes a + a + . . ., so that
S n = na; this tends to or as n
(depending on the sign of a); and hence GS is
divergent in this case also.
If r = 1, then GS becomes a a + a a + . . ., so that
(
0, if n is even
Sn =
a, if n is odd.
Since a is not zero, S n does not tend to a unique
limiting value and hence is divergent in this case
also.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

 p
P
Q:50
( 2)n .

n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

 p
P
Q:50
( 2)n .

n =0

Sol. Here r =
divergent.

Devendra Kumar

p
P
2 > 1, therefore
( 2)n is

n =0

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

 p
P
Q:50
( 2)n .

n =0

Sol. Here r =
divergent.
P
Q:57 102n .

Devendra Kumar

p
P
2 > 1, therefore
( 2)n is

n =0

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

 p
P
Q:50
( 2)n .

n =0

Sol. Here r =

p
P
2 > 1, therefore
( 2)n is

n =0

divergent.
P
Q:57 102n .
P
1
Sol. Here r = 10
< 1, therefore 102n is convergent
and
2
X 2
2
10
=
=
.
10n 1 1
9
10

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:67

n
P
e

n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:67

n
P
e

n =0

e n
P
Sol. Here r = e < 1, therefore
is convergent
n =0
and
e n
X
1

=
=
.
e

e
n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:67

n
P
e

n =0

e n
.
ne

e n
P
Sol. Here r = e < 1, therefore
is convergent
n =0
and
e n
X
1

=
=
.
e

e
n =0

Q:68

n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:67

n
P
e

n =0

e n
.
ne

e n
P
Sol. Here r = e < 1, therefore
is convergent
n =0
and
e n
X
1

=
=
.
e

e
n =0

Q:68

n =0

Sol. Here r = e e > 1 (How ?), therefore

divergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

e n
n=0 ne

is

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 7. The necessary condition

for a series to be convergent)
P
If a n converges, then lim a n = 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 7. The necessary condition

for a series to be convergent)
P
If a n converges, then lim a n = 0.
Proof. We have

a1 = S1
a n = S n S n1 for n = 2, 3, 4, . . .
If the given series converges then S n L. Therefore,
lim a n = lim(S n S n1 ) L L = 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
The converse of above theorem is not true
i.e., lim a n = 0 does not necessarily imply that the
P
series a n converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
The converse of above theorem is not true
i.e., lim a n = 0 does not necessarily imply that the
P
series a n converges.
Example

P
For the Harmonic series n1 ; lim a n = 0 but the series
is divergent (well see later). Thus we have following
important test for the divergence.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The nth term test for divergence

If lim a n fails to exist or is different from zero, then
P
a n is divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The nth term test for divergence

If lim a n fails to exist or is different from zero, then
P
a n is divergent.

P
Q:34 or 53
cos n.
n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The nth term test for divergence

If lim a n fails to exist or is different from zero, then
P
a n is divergent.

P
Q:34 or 53
cos n.
n =0
lim a n

= lim cos n = lim(1)n , which does

P
cos n is divergent.
not exist, therefore

Sol. Here

n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:60

n
P
1 n1 .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

n
P
Q:60
1 n1 .

1 n
1 n
Sol. lim a n = lim 1 n = lim 1 + n = e1 , 0,

P
1 n
therefore
1 n is divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

n
P
Q:60
1 n1 .

1 n
1 n
Sol. lim a n = lim 1 n = lim 1 + n = e1 , 0,

P
1 n
therefore
1 n is divergent.

Q:62

P nn

n! .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

n
P
Q:60
1 n1 .

1 n
1 n
Sol. lim a n = lim 1 n = lim 1 + n = e1 , 0,

P
1 n
therefore
1 n is divergent.

P n
Q:62 nn! .
n
P n
Sol. lim a n = lim nn! = (How?), therefore nn! is
divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:66

ln

n
2 n +1

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I


P
Q:66 ln 2nn+1 .
Sol. lim 2nn+1 = lim 1 1 = 12 , therefore
n 2+ n 1

P
lim a n = lim ln 2n+1 = ln 2 , 0, and so ln 2nn+1 is
divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 8.)

P
P
If a n = A and b n = B are two convergent series,
then

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 8.)

P
P
If a n = A and b n = B are two convergent series,
then
P
P
P
(a n b n ) = a n b n = A B.
P
P
ka n = k a n = kA (for any real number k).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.3
The Integral Test
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

For next few classes, series will be assumed to be

series of nonnegative terms i.e., a n 0 for all n. This
means that S n S n+1 for all n. That is the sequence
{S n } is nondecreasing.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

For next few classes, series will be assumed to be

series of nonnegative terms i.e., a n 0 for all n. This
means that S n S n+1 for all n. That is the sequence
{S n } is nondecreasing.
Corollary (Corollary of Theorem 6)
P
A series a n of nonnegative terms converges iff S n is
bounded from above.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 9. The Integral Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Let f ( x) be a
positive, continuous and decreasing function for all
x N for some N ; and let f ( n) = a n for all n. Then

R
P
the series
a n and the integral N f ( x) dx both
n= N

converge or both diverge.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 9. The Integral Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Let f ( x) be a
positive, continuous and decreasing function for all
x N for some N ; and let f ( n) = a n for all n. Then

R
P
the series
a n and the integral N f ( x) dx both
n= N

converge or both diverge.

Remark.
The sum of the series and the value of integral need
not necessarily be equal in the convergent case.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Let we apply this test to p-series:

An Important Result
P
The p-series n1p is convergent for p > 1, and
divergent for p 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Let we apply this test to p-series:

An Important Result
P
The p-series n1p is convergent for p > 1, and
divergent for p 1.
Proof. For p 0, the series is trivially divergent (as
lim a n , 0).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Let we apply this test to p-series:

An Important Result
P
The p-series n1p is convergent for p > 1, and
divergent for p 1.
Proof. For p 0, the series is trivially divergent (as
lim a n , 0).
So we consider p > 0. Note that for p > 0 the function
f ( x) = x1p is positive, continuous and decreasing when
x 1. So we can apply integral test:
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If p > 1, then
h p+1 ib
R 1
R
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 =
Thus, the series converges in this case.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

1
p 1 .

Mathematics I

If p > 1, then
h p+1 ib
R 1
R
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 =
Thus, the series converges in this case.

1
p 1 .

If 0 < p 1. We split the case

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If p > 1, then
h p+1 ib
R 1
R
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 =
Thus, the series converges in this case.

1
p 1 .

If 0 < p 1. We split
the case
R 1

If p = 1, we get 1 x dx = limb [ln x]1b . So the

series is divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If p > 1, then
h p+1 ib
R 1
R
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 =
Thus, the series converges in this case.

1
p 1 .

If 0 < p 1. We split
the case
R 1

If p = 1, we get 1 x dx = limb [ln x]1b . So the

series is divergent.
If 0 < p < 1, then
h p +1 i b
R
R 1
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 . Hence the
p-series diverges in this case also.


Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

If p > 1, then
h p+1 ib
R 1
R
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 =
Thus, the series converges in this case.

1
p 1 .

If 0 < p 1. We split
the case
R 1

If p = 1, we get 1 x dx = limb [ln x]1b . So the

series is divergent.
If 0 < p < 1, then
h p +1 i b
R
R 1
x
1 f ( x) dx = 1 x p dx = lim b p+1 1 . Hence the
p-series diverges in this case also.


An Important Result
By the above test the Harmonic series
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

P1

diverges.

Mathematics I

Q:18 Decide whether the series converges/diverges:

X ln n

n2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18 Decide whether the series converges/diverges:

X ln n

n2

Sol. The function f ( x) = lnx2x is positive, continuous

and decreasing for all x 2 (note that these three
p
conditions holds true for all x > e). Now, we have

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Z
2

Z
ln x
t
dx
=
te
dt (on substituting ln x = t)
x2
ln 2
b
= lim [( t + 1) e t ]ln
2
b

1 + ln2
.
2

Hence by integral test the series

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

P ln n
n2

is convergent.

Mathematics I

Q:32

1
.
n(1+ln2 n)

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:32

1
.
n(1+ln2 n)

1
Sol. The function f ( x) =
is positive,
x(1+ln2 x)
continuous and decreasing for all x 1.
Z
Z
1
dt
dx
=
(on substituting ln x = t)
2
2
0 1+ t
1 x(1 + ln x)
= lim [tan1 t]0b

= .
2
Hence by integral test the series is convergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Homework Which of the series converge and which

diverge?
P1
n.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Homework Which of the series converge and which

diverge?
P1
.
P n1
.
n2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Homework Which of the series converge and which

diverge?
P1
.
P n1
.
n2
Ans. Divergent, Convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Homework Which of the series converge and which

diverge?
P1
.
P n1
.
n2
Ans. Divergent, Convergent.

Homework For what p > 0, does the series

converge?

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

1
n(ln n) p

Mathematics I

Homework Which of the series converge and which

diverge?
P1
.
P n1
.
n2
Ans. Divergent, Convergent.

Homework For what p > 0, does the series

converge?
Ans. p > 1.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

1
n(ln n) p

Mathematics I

Section 10.4
Comparison Tests
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now, well study two comparison tests:

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now, well study two comparison tests:

The Direct Comparison Test (DCT)

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now, well study two comparison tests:

The Direct Comparison Test (DCT)
The Limit Comparison Test (LCT)

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 10. The Direct Comparison

Test)
P
Let a n be a series of nonnegative terms. Then
P
(a) If a n c n for all n N , where c n is a
P
known convergent series; then a n
converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 10. The Direct Comparison

Test)
P
Let a n be a series of nonnegative terms. Then
P
(a) If a n c n for all n N , where c n is a
P
known convergent series; then a n
converges.
P
(b) If a n d n for all n N , where d n is a
known divergent series of nonnegative terms,
P
then a n diverges.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Example
As an application, well prove that the exponential
P
series n1! is convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Example
As an application, well prove that the exponential
P
series n1! is convergent.
Sol. Here, a n = n1! . We know that 2n1 n! for all n.
Therefore, we have,

an =

1
1
n1 = c n (say) for all n.
n! 2

P
Moreover, 2n11 , being a geometric series with r = 12 ,
is convergent. Therefore, by DCT the exponential
series is convergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18

3p
n+ n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18

3p
n+ n

Sol. Here a n = n+3pn 3/2

n for all n. Since the series
P1
P 3
p diverges.
diverges,
therefore
by
DCT
n
n+ n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18

3p
n+ n

p 1
n 3 +2

Sol. Here a n = n+3pn 3/2

n for all n. Since the series
P1
P 3
p diverges.
diverges,
therefore
by
DCT
n
n+ n
Q:26

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18

3p
n+ n

p 1
n 3 +2

Sol. Here a n = n+3pn 3/2

n for all n. Since the series
P1
P 3
p diverges.
diverges,
therefore
by
DCT
n
n+ n
Q:26

Sol. Here a n = p 13 n13/2 for all n. Since the series

n +2
P 1
P 1
p
converges,
therefore
by
DCT
3/2
n
n 3 +2
converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:44

P (n1)!

(n+2)! .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:44

P (n1)!

(n+2)! .

1)!
1
1
Sol. Here a n = ((nn+
2)! = (n+2)(n+1)n < n3 for all n. Since
P
P 1)!
the series n13 converges, therefore by DCT ((nn+
2)!
converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (11. Limit Comparison Test)

Suppose a n and b n are positive for all n N .
(a) If lim ab nn = c (finite and non zero), then both
P
P
a n and b n converge or diverge together.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (11. Limit Comparison Test)

Suppose a n and b n are positive for all n N .
(a) If lim ab nn = c (finite and non zero), then both
P
P
a n and b n converge or diverge together.
P
P
(b) If lim ab nn = 0, and b n converges, then a n
also converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (11. Limit Comparison Test)

Suppose a n and b n are positive for all n N .
(a) If lim ab nn = c (finite and non zero), then both
P
P
a n and b n converge or diverge together.
P
P
(b) If lim ab nn = 0, and b n converges, then a n
also converges.
P
P
(c) If lim ab nn = , and b n diverges, then a n
also diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:24

5 n 3 3 n
n=3 n2 (n2)(n2 +5) .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

5 n 3 3 n
n=3 n2 (n2)(n2 +5) .
3 3 n
Sol. Here a n = n2 (n5n2)(
. Consider
n2 +5)
P
Note that b n is convergent. Now

Q:24

lim
Hence

an
= lim
bn

5 n 3 3 n

n2 (n2)(n2 +5)
1
n2

b n = nn5 = n12 .

= 5.

a n is convergent, by LCT (a).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:36

P n +2 n
n2 2 n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:36

P n +2 n
n2 2 n

Sol. Here a n = nn+2 22n . Since 2n > n for all n so consider

n
P
b n = n22 2n = n12 . Note that b n is convergent. Now

an
lim
= lim
bn

Hence

n +2 n
n2 2 n
1
n2

n + 2n
= lim
= 1.
2n

a n is convergent, by LCT (a).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:28

P (ln n)2
n3

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:28

P (ln n)2
n3

.
2

Sol. Here a n = (lnnn3 ) . Consider b n = nn3 = n31c , where c

P
is very small (close to zero). Note that b n is
convergent. Now

an
lim
= lim
bn
Hence

(ln n)2
n3
1
3
n c

(ln n)2
= lim
= 0.
nc

a n is convergent, by LCT (b).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:46

tan n1

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:46 tan n1
Sol. Note the series of tan x
1
2
tan x = x + x3 + x5 +
3
15

Here a n = tan n1 . Consider b n = n1 . Note that

divergent. Now

b n is

tan
an
lim
= lim 1 n = 1.
bn
n

Hence

a n is divergent, by LCT (a).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.5
Ratio and Root Tests
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 12. Ratio Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Suppose
lim aan+n 1 = r . Then

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 12. Ratio Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Suppose
lim aan+n 1 = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 12. Ratio Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Suppose
lim aan+n 1 = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;
(b) If r > 1, the series is divergent;

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 12. Ratio Test)

P
Let a n be a series of positive terms. Suppose
lim aan+n 1 = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;
(b) If r > 1, the series is divergent;
(c) If r = 1, the test is inconclusive.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:32

P n ln n
2n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:32 n2lnn n .
Sol. Here a n = n2lnn n . So

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:32 n2lnn n .
Sol. Here a n = n2lnn n . So

a n +1
=
an

(n+1) ln(n+1)
2 n+1
n ln n
2n

( n + 1) ln( n + 1)
.
2 n ln n

Thus
lim

a n +1 1
= < 1 (on applying LH o spitals rule).
an
2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:32 n2lnn n .
Sol. Here a n = n2lnn n . So

a n +1
=
an

(n+1) ln(n+1)
2 n+1
n ln n
2n

( n + 1) ln( n + 1)
.
2 n ln n

Thus
lim

a n +1 1
= < 1 (on applying LH o spitals rule).
an
2

Therefore by ratio test, the series converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:38

n!
nn .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:38 nnn! .
Sol. Here a n = nnn! . So

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:38 nnn! .
Sol. Here a n = nnn! . So

lim

a n +1
an

Devendra Kumar

(n+1)!
(n+1)n+1
n!
nn

n n
1 n
=
= 1
n+1
n+1
n
1
= lim 1
= e 1 < 1.
n+1

a n +1
=
an

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:38 nnn! .
Sol. Here a n = nnn! . So

lim

a n +1
an

(n+1)!
(n+1)n+1
n!
nn

n n
1 n
=
= 1
n+1
n+1
n
1
= lim 1
= e 1 < 1.
n+1

a n +1
=
an

Therefore by ratio test, the series converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:42

3n
.
n3 2 n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:42

3n
.
n3 2 n

Sol. Here a n = n33 2n . So

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:42

3n
.
n3 2 n

Sol. Here a n = n33 2n . So

a n +1
=
an

3 n+1
(n+1)3 2 n+1
3n
n3 2 n

n3
3
= .
2 ( n + 1)3

a n +1
3
n3
3
lim
= lim .
=
> 1.
an
2 ( n + 1)3 2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:42

3n
.
n3 2 n

Sol. Here a n = n33 2n . So

a n +1
=
an

3 n+1
(n+1)3 2 n+1
3n
n3 2 n

n3
3
= .
2 ( n + 1)3

a n +1
3
n3
3
lim
= lim .
=
> 1.
an
2 ( n + 1)3 2

Therefore by ratio test, the series diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 13. Root Test or nth Root

Test)
P
Let a n be a series of non-negative terms, and
1
suppose that lim(a n ) n = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 13. Root Test or nth Root

Test)
P
Let a n be a series of non-negative terms, and
1
suppose that lim(a n ) n = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;
(b) If r > 1, the series is divergent;

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 13. Root Test or nth Root

Test)
P
Let a n be a series of non-negative terms, and
1
suppose that lim(a n ) n = r . Then
(a) If r < 1, the series is convergent;
(b) If r > 1, the series is divergent;
(c) If r = 1, the test is inconclusive.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:18

n2 e n .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:18 n2 en .
Sol. Here

a n = n2 e n

(a n )1/n = n2/n e1

lim(a n )1/n = lim n2/n e1 = e1 < 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:18 n2 en .
Sol. Here

a n = n2 e n

(a n )1/n = n2/n e1

lim(a n )1/n = lim n2/n e1 = e1 < 1.

Therefore the series converges by root test.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:40

n
n=2 (ln n)( n/2) .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
n
Q:40
n=2 (ln n)( n/2) .
Sol. Here

an =
(a n )1/n =

n
(ln n)(n/2)
n1/n

(ln n)1/2
n1/n
1/n
lim(a n ) = lim
= 0 < 1.
(ln n)1/2

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
n
Q:40
n=2 (ln n)( n/2) .
Sol. Here

an =
(a n )1/n =

n
(ln n)(n/2)
n1/n

(ln n)1/2
n1/n
1/n
lim(a n ) = lim
= 0 < 1.
(ln n)1/2
Therefore the series converges by root test.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.6
Alternating Series, Absolute and
Conditional Convergence

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Alternating Series
A series whose terms are alternately positive and
negative is called an alternating series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Alternating Series
A series whose terms are alternately positive and
negative is called an alternating series.
P
An alternating series is one of the form (1)n+1 u n
P
or (1)n u n , where u n > 0 for all n.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
P
(1)n+1

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
P
(1)n+1
P
(1)n+1 n1

Devendra Kumar

(Alternating harmonic series)

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
P
(1)n+1
P
(1)n+1 n1 (Alternating harmonic series)

P
(1)n ln 1 + n1

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples
P
(1)n+1
P
(1)n+1 n1 (Alternating harmonic series)

P
(1)n ln 1 + n1
P
n
(1)n n+
1

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 14. Leibnizs Theorem for

Alternating Series)
P
The alternating series (1)n+1 u n converges if
(i) u n u n+1 for all n N for some N ; and

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 14. Leibnizs Theorem for

Alternating Series)
P
The alternating series (1)n+1 u n converges if
(i) u n u n+1 for all n N for some N ; and
(ii) u n 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 14. Leibnizs Theorem for

Alternating Series)
P
The alternating series (1)n+1 u n converges if
(i) u n u n+1 for all n N for some N ; and
(ii) u n 0.
Proof. It is enough to show that the sequence S n is
convergent (definition of convergence of a series). In
order to show that S n converges, we use the
following result:
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ex. 131 on p. 543: For a sequence {S n }, if {S 2n } and

{S 2n+1 } converge to the same number L, then S n L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ex. 131 on p. 543: For a sequence {S n }, if {S 2n } and

{S 2n+1 } converge to the same number L, then S n L.
First consider the sequence {S 2n }. Well see that S 2n
converges (by showing that S 2n is non-decreasing
and bounded from above).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ex. 131 on p. 543: For a sequence {S n }, if {S 2n } and

{S 2n+1 } converge to the same number L, then S n L.
First consider the sequence {S 2n }. Well see that S 2n
converges (by showing that S 2n is non-decreasing
and bounded from above).
S 2n is non-decreasing We have

S 2 n +2 = S 2 n + ( u 2 n +1 u 2 n +2 ).
Since u2n+1 u2n+2 0, so S 2n+2 S 2n . Thus the
sequence {S 2n } is non-decreasing.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Ex. 131 on p. 543: For a sequence {S n }, if {S 2n } and

{S 2n+1 } converge to the same number L, then S n L.
First consider the sequence {S 2n }. Well see that S 2n
converges (by showing that S 2n is non-decreasing
and bounded from above).
S 2n is non-decreasing We have

S 2 n +2 = S 2 n + ( u 2 n +1 u 2 n +2 ).
Since u2n+1 u2n+2 0, so S 2n+2 S 2n . Thus the
sequence {S 2n } is non-decreasing.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

S 2n is bounded from above Arrange S 2n as

S 2 n = u 1 ( u 2 u 3 ) ( u 2 n 2 u 2 n 1 ) u 2 n u 1 .
Thus the sequence {S 2n } is bounded from above.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

S 2n is bounded from above Arrange S 2n as

S 2 n = u 1 ( u 2 u 3 ) ( u 2 n 2 u 2 n 1 ) u 2 n u 1 .
Thus the sequence {S 2n } is bounded from above.
Therefore it is convergent and so has a limit, say L
i.e., lim S 2n L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider the sequence {S 2n+1 }. We have

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider the sequence {S 2n+1 }. We have

S 2 n +1 = S 2 n + u 2 n +1
lim S 2n+1 = lim S 2n + lim u2n+1 .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider the sequence {S 2n+1 }. We have

S 2 n +1 = S 2 n + u 2 n +1
lim S 2n+1 = lim S 2n + lim u2n+1 .
Therefore, using condition (ii):

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider the sequence {S 2n+1 }. We have

S 2 n +1 = S 2 n + u 2 n +1
lim S 2n+1 = lim S 2n + lim u2n+1 .
Therefore, using condition (ii):
lim S 2n+1 = L + 0 = L.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now consider the sequence {S 2n+1 }. We have

S 2 n +1 = S 2 n + u 2 n +1
lim S 2n+1 = lim S 2n + lim u2n+1 .
Therefore, using condition (ii):
lim S 2n+1 = L + 0 = L.
P
Thus S n L and hence (1)n+1 u n converges to
L.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:8

P
n
(1)n (n10
+1)! .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:8

P
n
(1)n (n10
+1)! .

Sol. (i) Here u n = (n10

+1)! . Consider
10n
10n+1
( n 8)10n
u n u n +1 =

=
.
( n + 1)! ( n + 2)!
( n + 2)!

Thus u n u n+1 0 for all n 8 i.e., u n u n+1 for all

n 8.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:8

P
n
(1)n (n10
+1)! .

Sol. (i) Here u n = (n10

+1)! . Consider
10n
10n+1
( n 8)10n
u n u n +1 =

=
.
( n + 1)! ( n + 2)!
( n + 2)!

Thus u n u n+1 0 for all n 8 i.e., u n u n+1 for all

n 8.
n

(ii) Also, we have lim u n = lim (n10

+1)! = 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:8

P
n
(1)n (n10
+1)! .

Sol. (i) Here u n = (n10

+1)! . Consider
10n
10n+1
( n 8)10n
u n u n +1 =

=
.
( n + 1)! ( n + 2)!
( n + 2)!

Thus u n u n+1 0 for all n 8 i.e., u n u n+1 for all

n 8.
n

(ii) Also, we have lim u n = lim (n10

+1)! = 0.

Hence by Laibnizs test the series is convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:12

1
(1) ln 1 + n .
n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

1
Q:12 (1) ln 1 + n .

Sol. (i) Here u n = ln 1 + n1 . Consider

1
1
f ( x) = ln 1 + f ( x) =
.
x
x( x + 1)
P

Since f ( x) < 0 for all x 1. So f ( x) is decreasing for

all x 1 and hence u n u n+1 , n 1.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

1
Q:12 (1) ln 1 + n .

Sol. (i) Here u n = ln 1 + n1 . Consider

1
1
f ( x) = ln 1 + f ( x) =
.
x
x( x + 1)
P

Since f ( x) < 0 for all x 1. So f ( x) is decreasing for

all x 1 and hence u n u n+1 , n 1.

1
(ii) Also, we have lim u n = lim ln 1 + n = 0 (how?).
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

1
Q:12 (1) ln 1 + n .

Sol. (i) Here u n = ln 1 + n1 . Consider

1
1
f ( x) = ln 1 + f ( x) =
.
x
x( x + 1)
P

Since f ( x) < 0 for all x 1. So f ( x) is decreasing for

all x 1 and hence u n u n+1 , n 1.

1
(ii) Also, we have lim u n = lim ln 1 + n = 0 (how?).
Hence by Laibnizs test the series is convergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Corollary
For alternating series, if lim u n does not tend to zero,
then the series diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Corollary
For alternating series, if lim u n does not tend to zero,
then the series diverges.
Q:6

P
2 5
(1)n+1 nn2 +
.
+4

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Corollary
For alternating series, if lim u n does not tend to zero,
then the series diverges.
Q:6

P
2 5
(1)n+1 nn2 +
.
+4
2

5
Sol. Here u n = nn2 +
. Since lim u n = 1, therefore by
+4
above corollary series is divergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Absolute and Conditional Convergence

P
A series a n is said to be absolutely convergent if
P
the series |a n | is convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Absolute and Conditional Convergence

P
A series a n is said to be absolutely convergent if
P
the series |a n | is convergent.
P
If the series a n is convergent but not absolutely
convergent, then it is said to be conditionally
convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 16. The Absolute

Convergence Test)
P
P
If |a n | converges, then a n also converges. That is
absolute convergence implies convergence.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Theorem (Theorem 16. The Absolute

Convergence Test)
P
P
If |a n | converges, then a n also converges. That is
absolute convergence implies convergence.
Proof. We have
|a n | a n |a n | , n.

So
0 |a n | + a n 2 |a n | .
P
P
Now the series 2 |a n | converges as the series |a n |
converges.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Therefore by Direct Comparison Test, the

P
non-negative terms series (|a n | + a n ) converges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Therefore by Direct Comparison Test, the

P
non-negative terms series (|a n | + a n ) converges.
Now we can write
X
X
X
X
a n = ( | a n | + a n | a n |) = ( | a n | + a n ) | a n | .
P
Therefore a n , being a difference of two convergent
series converges.


Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
The converse of above theorem is not true.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
The converse of above theorem is not true.
Example
n+1
P
P
The alternating harmonic series a n = (1)n
P
P
converges but |a n | = n1 diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Steps to check a series for absolute and conditional

convergence
P
First check the behavior of the series |a n |. If
P
P
|a n | is convergent then a n is absolutely
convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Steps to check a series for absolute and conditional

convergence
P
First check the behavior of the series |a n |. If
P
P
|a n | is convergent then a n is absolutely
convergent.
P
If |a n | is divergent then check the behavior of
P
P
P
a n . If a n is convergent then a n is
conditionally convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Steps to check a series for absolute and conditional

convergence
P
First check the behavior of the series |a n |. If
P
P
|a n | is convergent then a n is absolutely
convergent.
P
If |a n | is divergent then check the behavior of
P
P
P
a n . If a n is convergent then a n is
conditionally convergent.
P
Otherwise a n is divergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:30

ln n
(1)n n
ln n .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
ln n
Q:30 (1)n n
ln n .
Sol.
P
P ln n
First we check the behavior of |a n | = n
ln n . We
have
ln n 1
ln n

, n 3.
n ln n
n
n
P1
P ln n
Also n is divergent so nln n is also divergent
(by DCT).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now we check the behavior of

by using Leibnizs test.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

an =

P
ln n
(1)n n
ln n

Mathematics I

P
P
ln n
Now we check the behavior of a n = (1)n n
ln n
by using Leibnizs test.
ln x
(i) Consider f ( x) = xlnlnx x f ( x) = (x1ln
. Thus
x)2
f ( x) < 0 for all x > e and so u n u n+1 for all n 3.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
P
ln n
Now we check the behavior of a n = (1)n n
ln n
by using Leibnizs test.
ln x
(i) Consider f ( x) = xlnlnx x f ( x) = (x1ln
. Thus
x)2
f ( x) < 0 for all x > e and so u n u n+1 for all n 3.

ln n

(ii) Also we have lim n

ln n = 0 (Using LH ospitals
rule).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
P
ln n
Now we check the behavior of a n = (1)n n
ln n
by using Leibnizs test.
ln x
(i) Consider f ( x) = xlnlnx x f ( x) = (x1ln
. Thus
x)2
f ( x) < 0 for all x > e and so u n u n+1 for all n 3.

ln n

(ii) Also we have lim n

ln n = 0 (Using LH ospitals
rule).
P
ln n
Therefore by Leibnizs test (1)n n
ln n is
convergent.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
P
ln n
Now we check the behavior of a n = (1)n n
ln n
by using Leibnizs test.
ln x
(i) Consider f ( x) = xlnlnx x f ( x) = (x1ln
. Thus
x)2
f ( x) < 0 for all x > e and so u n u n+1 for all n 3.

ln n

(ii) Also we have lim n

ln n = 0 (Using LH ospitals
rule).
P
ln n
Therefore by Leibnizs test (1)n n
ln n is
convergent.
P
ln n
Hence (1)n n
ln n is conditionally convergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:38

(n!)
(1)n+1 (2
n)! .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:38

(n!)
(1)n+1 (2
n)! .

Sol. First we check the behavior of

We have
| a n +1 |
=
|a n |

and so lim

|a n+1 |
|a n |

Devendra Kumar

((n+1)!)2
(2 n+2)!
(n!)2
(2 n)!

|a n | =

P (n!)2

(2 n)! .

( n + 1)2
=
,
(2 n + 1)(2 n + 2)

= 14 < 1.

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:38

(n!)
(1)n+1 (2
n)! .

Sol. First we check the behavior of

We have
| a n +1 |
=
|a n |

((n+1)!)2
(2 n+2)!
(n!)2
(2 n)!

|a n | =

P (n!)2

(2 n)! .

( n + 1)2
=
,
(2 n + 1)(2 n + 2)

|a n+1 |
|a n |

= 14 < 1.
P
Therefore by ratio test |a n | converges and hence
P
a n is absolutely convergent.

and so lim

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Q:44

(1)n p

Devendra Kumar

n+

1p

n +1

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

P
Q:44 (1)n p 1p
.
n + n +1
Sol.
P
P
First we check the behavior of |a n | =

Consider b n =

p1 ,
n

then we have

n+

1p

1p

p
an
1
n + n +1
=
lim
= lim
.
bn
2
p1
n
P
Therefore by LCT (a) |a n | is divergent.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

n +1

Now we check the behavior of

P
P
a n = (1)n p 1p
by using Leibnizs test.
n+

Devendra Kumar

n +1

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Now we check the behavior of

P
P
a n = (1)n p 1p
by using Leibnizs test.

n + n +1
1p
1p
(i) Since p
>p
n + n +1
n +1+ n +2
u n > u n+1 for all n.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

for all n, so

Mathematics I

Now we check the behavior of

P
P
a n = (1)n p 1p
by using Leibnizs test.

n + n +1
1p
1p
(i) Since p
>p
n + n +1
n +1+ n +2
u n > u n+1 for all n.

(ii) Also we have lim u n = lim

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

for all n, so

n+

1p

n +1

= 0.

Mathematics I

Now we check the behavior of

P
P
a n = (1)n p 1p
by using Leibnizs test.

n + n +1
1p
1p
(i) Since p
>p
n + n +1
n +1+ n +2
u n > u n+1 for all n.

(ii) Also we have lim u n = lim

Therefore by Leibnizs test
convergent.

Devendra Kumar

for all n, so

n+

P
(1)n p

BITS, Pilani

1p

n +1

n+

1p

= 0.

n +1

is

Mathematics I

Now we check the behavior of

P
P
a n = (1)n p 1p
by using Leibnizs test.

n + n +1
1p
1p
(i) Since p
>p
n + n +1
n +1+ n +2
u n > u n+1 for all n.

(ii) Also we have lim u n = lim

for all n, so

n+

1p

n +1

= 0.

P
Therefore by Leibnizs test (1)n p 1p
is
n + n +1
convergent.
P
Hence (1)n p 1p
is conditionally convergent.
n+

Devendra Kumar

n +1

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Summary for Behavior of a Series

If lim a n 9 0, the series diverges.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Summary for Behavior of a Series

If lim a n 9 0, the series diverges.
See if it is known series (like geometric series,
p-series) etc.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Summary for Behavior of a Series

If lim a n 9 0, the series diverges.
See if it is known series (like geometric series,
p-series) etc.
For nonnegative terms series try integral test,
comparison test, ratio test, root test etc.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Summary for Behavior of a Series

If lim a n 9 0, the series diverges.
See if it is known series (like geometric series,
p-series) etc.
For nonnegative terms series try integral test,
comparison test, ratio test, root test etc.
For series with some negative terms (not
P
necessarily alternating series) see whether |a n |
P
converges. If yes, so does a n .
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Summary for Behavior of a Series

If lim a n 9 0, the series diverges.
See if it is known series (like geometric series,
p-series) etc.
For nonnegative terms series try integral test,
comparison test, ratio test, root test etc.
For series with some negative terms (not
P
necessarily alternating series) see whether |a n |
P
converges. If yes, so does a n .
For alternating series apply Leibnizs test.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Section 10.7
Power Series
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

A power series about x = a is a series of the form

P
a n ( x a)n in which the center a and
n =0

coefficients a n are constants.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

A power series about x = a is a series of the form

P
a n ( x a)n in which the center a and
n =0

coefficients a n are constants.

A power series about x = 0 is a series which looks

P
like
a n xn .
n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

A power series about x = a is a series of the form

P
a n ( x a)n in which the center a and
n =0

coefficients a n are constants.

A power series about x = 0 is a series which looks

P
like
a n xn .
n =0

In the expanded form, it looks like

a 0 + a 1 x + a 2 x2 + + a n x n + .
Here x is a real variable.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples

P
xn (geometric series).
n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples

P
xn (geometric series).
n =0

P
n =0

xn
n!

(exponential series).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Examples

P
xn (geometric series).
n =0

P
n =0

xn
n!

(exponential series).
n

(1)n+1 xn

Devendra Kumar

(logarithmic series).

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
A power series always converges at the center

P
P
n
i.e.,
a n ( x a) converges at x = a and
a n xn
n =0

n =0

converges at x = 0.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
A power series always converges at the center

P
P
n
i.e.,
a n ( x a) converges at x = a and
a n xn
n =0

n =0

converges at x = 0.
So, our aim is to determine the values x , a for

P
which
a n ( x a)n converges.
n =0

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The following result gives us all the information we

can have regarding convergence/divergence of a
given power series.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The following result gives us all the information we

can have regarding convergence/divergence of a
given power series.
Theorem (Theorem 18. The Convergence
Theorem for Power Series)

P
If the power series
a n xn
n =0

(i) Converges at x = c( c , 0), then it converges

absolutely for all x such that | x| < | c|.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

The following result gives us all the information we

can have regarding convergence/divergence of a
given power series.
Theorem (Theorem 18. The Convergence
Theorem for Power Series)

P
If the power series
a n xn
n =0

(i) Converges at x = c( c , 0), then it converges

absolutely for all x such that | x| < | c|.
(ii) Diverges at x = d , then it diverges for all x
such that | x| > |d |.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
P
A power series a n ( x a)n can have only one of the
following three features:

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
P
A power series a n ( x a)n can have only one of the
following three features:
(i) It converges only at x = a and diverges
elsewhere.

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
P
A power series a n ( x a)n can have only one of the
following three features:
(i) It converges only at x = a and diverges
elsewhere.
(ii) It converges over an interval i.e., there is a
positive real number R such that series
converges absolutely for | x a| < R and
diverges for | x a| > R . The series may or
may not converge at either endpoints
x = a R and x = a + R .
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Remark.
P
A power series a n ( x a)n can have only one of the
following three features:
(i) It converges only at x = a and diverges
elsewhere.
(ii) It converges over an interval i.e., there is a
positive real number R such that series
converges absolutely for | x a| < R and
diverges for | x a| > R . The series may or
may not converge at either endpoints
x = a R and x = a + R .
(iii) It converges absolutely for all x.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

In case (ii), the interval is called the interval of

convergence of the power series (it may includes one
or both end points) and the half length of the interval
is called the radius of convergence of the power
series (we denote it by R ).

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Radius of Convergence
A nonnegative number R such that the power series

P
a n ( x a)n converges absolutely for x such that
n =0

| x a| < R and diverges for | x a| > R is called the

radius of convergence of the power series. The series
may or may not converge at either endpoints
x = a R and x = a + R .

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Formula for Radius of Convergence

P
For the power series
a n ( x a)n the radius of
n =0

convergence is given by the formulae

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Formula for Radius of Convergence

P
For the power series
a n ( x a)n the radius of
n =0

convergence is given by the formulae

a n +1
1
.
= lim
R
a
n

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Formula for Radius of Convergence

P
For the power series
a n ( x a)n the radius of
n =0

convergence is given by the formulae

a n +1
1
.
= lim
R
an
or
1
= lim |a n |1/n .
R

Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Formula for Radius of Convergence

P
For the power series
a n ( x a)n the radius of
n =0

convergence is given by the formulae

a n +1
1
.
= lim
R
an
or
1
= lim |a n |1/n .
R

Remark.
If series converges only at center then R = 0.
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I

Formula for Radius of Convergence

P
For the power series
a n ( x a)n the radius of
n =0

convergence is given by the formulae

a n +1
1
.
= lim
R
an
or
1
= lim |a n |1/n .
R

Remark.
If series converges only at center then R = 0.
If series converges for all x then R = .
Devendra Kumar

BITS, Pilani

Mathematics I