Problem 6

Question

Determine the values of the sequence \(\left\\{a_{n}\right\\}\) for \(n=0,1,2, \ldots, 5\) $$ a_{n}=\frac{1}{\sqrt{n+1}} $$

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The sequence values for \( a_n \) where \( n=0 \) to \( n=5 \) are 1, \( \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \), \( \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \), \( \frac{1}{2} \), \( \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} \), and \( \frac{1}{\sqrt{6}} \).
1Step 1: Identify the given sequence formula
The sequence is defined as \( a_n = \frac{1}{\sqrt{n+1}} \). This formula will be used to calculate each term in the sequence by substituting the corresponding value of \( n \).
2Step 2: Calculate the value for \( n=0 \)
Substitute \( n=0 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_0 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{0+1}} = \frac{1}{1} = 1 \] So, \( a_0 = 1 \).
3Step 3: Calculate the value for \( n=1 \)
Substitute \( n=1 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_1 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \] So, \( a_1 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \).
4Step 4: Calculate the value for \( n=2 \)
Substitute \( n=2 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_2 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \] So, \( a_2 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \).
5Step 5: Calculate the value for \( n=3 \)
Substitute \( n=3 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_3 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{4}} = \frac{1}{2} \] So, \( a_3 = \frac{1}{2} \).
6Step 6: Calculate the value for \( n=4 \)
Substitute \( n=4 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_4 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{4+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} \] So, \( a_4 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} \).
7Step 7: Calculate the value for \( n=5 \)
Substitute \( n=5 \) into the sequence formula: \[ a_5 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{5+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{6}} \] So, \( a_5 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{6}} \).

Key Concepts

Understanding the Square Root FunctionTerm Calculation in SequencesExploring Mathematical Sequences
Understanding the Square Root Function
The square root function is a significant mathematical tool that helps simplify complex calculations. The function, denoted as \( \sqrt{x} \), determines a number which, when multiplied by itself, yields \( x \). For example, \( \sqrt{9} = 3 \) because \( 3 \times 3 = 9 \). The square root function is pivotal in determining the magnitude of numbers, especially those under a radical sign.

In the given sequence, \( a_n = \frac{1}{\sqrt{n+1}} \), the square root function assists in calculating the denominator of each term. Here, \( n \) is incremented step by step, determining the base of the square root. For instance, when \( n = 0 \), we get \( \sqrt{0 + 1} = \sqrt{1} = 1 \), simplifying the calculation of the sequence's terms.

  • Useful in handling quadratic equations
  • Essential for defining geometric shapes and measurements
  • Key in calculating distances and lengths in various applications
Term Calculation in Sequences
Calculating terms in a sequence involves substituting values into a given formula. For the sequence given by \( a_n = \frac{1}{\sqrt{n+1}} \), each term is discovered by replacing \( n \) with consecutive integers, starting with \( n = 0 \). You determine each term one at a time, providing a systematic approach to achieve the necessary results.

Here's how the process unfolds:
  • Substitute \( n = 0 \) in the formula: \( a_0 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{0+1}} = 1 \)
  • Next, use \( n = 1 \): \( a_1 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1+1}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \)
  • Repeat for \( n = 2 \), yielding \( a_2 = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \)
  • Continue this substitution up to \( n = 5 \)

In the sequence calculation, you can observe each term, discover patterns, and gain a clearer understanding of the sequence's behavior. It's like following clear steps with a logical progression, making the whole process smooth and understandable.
Exploring Mathematical Sequences
Mathematical sequences are ordered lists of numbers, usually defined by a specific rule or formula. They frequently appear in mathematics as they help structure and solve numerous mathematical problems. Sequences can be finite or infinite, depending on their rules and real-life applications.

The sequence \( a_n = \frac{1}{\sqrt{n+1}} \) is a simple example, forming a decreasing pattern as \( n \) increases. Each term finds its place by following the sequence formula, setting a concrete connection between consecutive terms. This pattern enables mathematicians and learners alike to predict subsequent values and understand deeper properties.

  • Sequences are foundational in fields such as calculus and analysis
  • They provide essential insights into patterns and behaviors in mathematics
  • Crucial for understanding growth, decay, and limits in various contexts

By studying sequences, you learn about patterns and their progression, which is essential in predicting outcomes, solving real-world problems, and further exploring mathematical theories.