Math Problem Statement

Approximate \( \sum_{n=1}^\infty \frac{(1)^n}{10^n} \) correct to 4 decimal places.

Solution

The question asks to approximate the infinite sum

n=1(1)n10n\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{(1)^n}{10^n}

correct to 4 decimal places.

This series can be identified as a geometric series where the general term is

an=(1)n10n=110n,a_n = \frac{(1)^n}{10^n} = \frac{1}{10^n},

with the first term a=110a = \frac{1}{10} and common ratio r=110r = \frac{1}{10}.

For a geometric series with r<1|r| < 1, the sum of the infinite series is given by:

S=a1r.S = \frac{a}{1 - r}.

Substituting the values:

a=110,r=110.a = \frac{1}{10}, \quad r = \frac{1}{10}.

S=1101110=110910=19.S = \frac{\frac{1}{10}}{1 - \frac{1}{10}} = \frac{\frac{1}{10}}{\frac{9}{10}} = \frac{1}{9}.

Calculating SS:

S=0.1111(correct to 4 decimal places).S = 0.1111 \, (\text{correct to 4 decimal places}).

The approximation of the series is 0.1111\mathbf{0.1111}.

Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification!

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. What would the sum be if the common ratio rr changed to 12\frac{1}{2}?
  2. How would you approximate this series using partial sums?
  3. What happens to the series' sum if r1r \geq 1?
  4. Can you apply this formula to non-geometric series?
  5. How does rounding affect the accuracy of the solution?

Tip: Always check if the series converges (e.g., r<1|r| < 1) before applying the infinite sum formula!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Series
Convergence of Infinite Series

Formulas

Sum of Infinite Geometric Series: \( S = \frac{a}{1 - r} \)

Theorems

Geometric Series Theorem (\( |r| < 1 \) for convergence)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12