Math Problem Statement

is the sequence cos(npi/2) divergent or convergent

Solution

The sequence cos(nπ2)\cos\left(\frac{n \pi}{2}\right) is divergent. Let's analyze why:

The sequence cos(nπ2)\cos\left(\frac{n \pi}{2}\right) depends on the integer values of nn. By plugging in consecutive values of nn, we get:

  1. For n=0n = 0: cos(0)=1\cos(0) = 1
  2. For n=1n = 1: cos(π2)=0\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = 0
  3. For n=2n = 2: cos(π)=1\cos(\pi) = -1
  4. For n=3n = 3: cos(3π2)=0\cos\left(\frac{3\pi}{2}\right) = 0
  5. For n=4n = 4: cos(2π)=1\cos(2\pi) = 1

And this pattern repeats: 1,0,1,0,1,0,1,0,1, 0, -1, 0, 1, 0, -1, 0, \dots.

Since the sequence oscillates among the values 11, 00, and 1-1 without approaching a single limit, it does not converge. Therefore, the sequence cos(nπ2)\cos\left(\frac{n \pi}{2}\right) is divergent.

Would you like more details on the reasoning or about sequence convergence in general?

Here are some related questions that might interest you:

  1. What are the criteria for determining if a sequence is convergent or divergent?
  2. How does the behavior of trigonometric sequences differ from typical algebraic sequences in terms of convergence?
  3. Can a sequence be divergent but still bounded?
  4. What are examples of other oscillating sequences, and how are they analyzed for convergence?
  5. How would we prove formally that a sequence is bounded?

Tip: For trigonometric sequences, analyzing specific values and identifying patterns can quickly reveal convergence or divergence.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Convergence
Trigonometric Functions

Formulas

cos(nπ/2)

Theorems

Divergence of oscillating sequences

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12