Math Problem Statement

Theorem 3.2.11: Let (x_n) be a sequence of positive real numbers such that lim(x_(n+1)/x_n) = L exists. If L < 1, then (x_n) converges and lim(x_n) = 0.

Solution

The image contains the statement and proof of Theorem 3.2.11 regarding sequences of positive real numbers and their limits. The theorem discusses the behavior of a sequence (xn)(x_n) when the limit of the ratio limxn+1xn=L\lim \frac{x_{n+1}}{x_n} = L exists, particularly when L<1L < 1.

Theorem 3.2.11:

Let (xn)(x_n) be a sequence of positive real numbers such that L:=limxn+1xnL := \lim \frac{x_{n+1}}{x_n} exists. If L<1L < 1, then (xn)(x_n) converges, and limxn=0\lim x_n = 0.

Proof Sketch:

  • From Theorem 3.2.4, it follows that L0L \geq 0.
  • Select rr such that L<r<1L < r < 1. Define ϵ:=rL>0\epsilon := r - L > 0.
  • There exists a number KNK \in \mathbb{N} such that for all nKn \geq K: xn+1xnL<ϵ\left| \frac{x_{n+1}}{x_n} - L \right| < \epsilon This implies: xn+1xn<L+ϵ=r\frac{x_{n+1}}{x_n} < L + \epsilon = r
  • Therefore, for all nKn \geq K, we have: 0<xn+1<xnr<xn1r2<<xKrnK+10 < x_{n+1} < x_n r < x_{n-1} r^2 < \cdots < x_K r^{n-K+1}
  • Set C:=xKrKC := x_K r^{K}. Then, for nKn \geq K, xn<Crn+1x_n < Cr^{n+1}. Since 0<r<10 < r < 1, this implies limxn=0\lim x_n = 0.

The proof concludes with the observation that the sequence tends to 0, using a comparison test and the fact that rnr^n tends to 0 as nn \to \infty.


Would you like any details on specific parts of the proof or the theorem?

Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What does Theorem 3.2.4 state, and how is it used in this proof?
  2. Why is it necessary to choose rr such that L<r<1L < r < 1?
  3. How does the inequality xn+1xn<r\frac{x_{n+1}}{x_n} < r help in proving convergence of the sequence?
  4. What role does the comparison sequence xn<Crn+1x_n < Cr^{n+1} play in concluding limxn=0\lim x_n = 0?
  5. Can this theorem be extended to sequences with L=1L = 1? What happens in that case?

Tip: When dealing with sequences and their limits, try to find a comparison sequence that is easier to analyze, as it often simplifies the proof of convergence or divergence.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Sequences
Limits
Real Analysis

Formulas

L = lim(x_(n+1)/x_n)

Theorems

Limit Comparison Test
Theorem 3.2.4

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate-level (Real Analysis)