Math Problem Statement

is the correct answer 1/sqrt(e)

Solution

Yes, you are correct! The correct answer to the series

n=0(1)nn!2n\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{(-1)^n}{n! \cdot 2^n}

is indeed 1e\frac{1}{\sqrt{e}}.

Here's the correct reasoning:

The series can be rewritten as:

n=0(1)nn!2n=n=0(12)nn!\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{(-1)^n}{n! \cdot 2^n} = \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)^n}{n!}

This is the Taylor series expansion of the exponential function evaluated at 12-\frac{1}{2}:

e12=n=0(12)nn!e^{-\frac{1}{2}} = \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)^n}{n!}

However, because of the (1)n(-1)^n factor, this can also be recognized as the series for exe^{-x} evaluated at x=12x = \frac{1}{2}:

n=0(12)nn!=e12\sum_{n=0}^{\infty} \frac{\left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)^n}{n!} = e^{-\frac{1}{2}}

Thus, the series sums to e12e^{-\frac{1}{2}}, which is equivalent to:

1e\frac{1}{\sqrt{e}}

So the final correct value of the series is indeed 1e\frac{1}{\sqrt{e}}.

Would you like to explore more details on how series expansions work or any other questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How does the square root function impact the convergence of the series?
  2. Can you generalize this result for other similar series?
  3. What are some real-world applications of exponential functions like exe^{-x}?
  4. How can this series be derived directly from known series expansions?
  5. What are the implications of the 1e\frac{1}{\sqrt{e}} result in probability theory?

Tip: Always check the form of a series against known expansions, like those of the exponential function, as it often simplifies the problem significantly.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Series
Taylor Series
Exponential Function
Convergence

Formulas

Taylor series expansion
Exponential function series

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Advanced Undergraduate