Math Problem Statement

Find the sum of the series: \( \sum_{k=3}^{\infty} \frac{5}{6^k} \)

Solution

The series presented is:

k=356k\sum_{k=3}^{\infty} \frac{5}{6^k}

This is an infinite geometric series, where the general term is given by:

56k\frac{5}{6^k}

We can write this in the form of a geometric series as:

563+564+565+\frac{5}{6^3} + \frac{5}{6^4} + \frac{5}{6^5} + \cdots

The general form of a geometric series is:

k=0ark=a1r,where r<1\sum_{k=0}^{\infty} ar^k = \frac{a}{1 - r}, \quad \text{where } |r| < 1

Here, a=563a = \frac{5}{6^3} (the first term when k=3k = 3), and r=16r = \frac{1}{6} (the common ratio).

To compute the sum, we use the formula for the sum of an infinite geometric series:

S=a1rS = \frac{a}{1 - r}

Substituting the values a=563=5216a = \frac{5}{6^3} = \frac{5}{216} and r=16r = \frac{1}{6}:

S=5216116=521656=5216×65=136S = \frac{\frac{5}{216}}{1 - \frac{1}{6}} = \frac{\frac{5}{216}}{\frac{5}{6}} = \frac{5}{216} \times \frac{6}{5} = \frac{1}{36}

Thus, the sum of the series is:

S=136S = \frac{1}{36}

Would you like a more detailed explanation on any step or further clarifications? Here are some related questions:

  1. How is the general form of a geometric series derived?
  2. Can this sum be calculated using other methods, such as telescoping series?
  3. How would the sum change if the starting index kk were different?
  4. What conditions must be met for a geometric series to converge?
  5. How does this geometric series relate to real-world applications?

Tip: For a geometric series to converge, the common ratio rr must satisfy r<1|r| < 1.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometric Series
Infinite Series

Formulas

Sum of an infinite geometric series: \( S = \frac{a}{1 - r} \)

Theorems

Convergence of geometric series

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12