Math Problem Statement
find a formula for the nth partial sum then find the sum if it converges
Solution
To solve this problem, let us first determine the general formula for the series and then analyze the convergence.
Step 1: General Term Simplification
The given series is:
The general term of the series is:
We can simplify this term using partial fractions:
Solving for and , we get:
By equating coefficients:
Thus:
So:
Step 2: Partial Sum Formula
The partial sum up to the -th term is:
This is a telescoping series. Writing out the terms:
Most terms cancel, leaving:
Step 3: Convergence of the Series
To find the sum of the infinite series, we take the limit as :
Final Answer
- The formula for the -th partial sum is:
- The sum of the series, if it converges, is:
Would you like further clarification on this, or do you have additional questions? Here are some related queries to consider:
- How does the partial fraction decomposition work in other contexts?
- What is the significance of a telescoping series in calculus?
- Can we derive the convergence using a different approach (e.g., integral test)?
- What other types of series converge to finite sums?
- How do we verify if a series diverges?
Tip: Telescoping series are an excellent way to simplify complex expressions quickly by leveraging cancellation.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Series and Sequences
Partial Fractions
Telescoping Series
Limits
Formulas
General Term: \( a_n = \frac{6}{n(n+1)} \)
Partial Fraction Decomposition: \( \frac{6}{n(n+1)} = \frac{6}{n} - \frac{6}{n+1} \)
Partial Sum Formula: \( S_n = 6 - \frac{6}{n+1} \)
Limit of a Series: \( \lim_{n \to \infty} S_n = 6 \)
Theorems
Limit Theorem for Series
Properties of Telescoping Series
Suitable Grade Level
Undergraduate Mathematics or Advanced High School (Grades 11-12)
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