Problem 63

Question

Assume that the series \(\sum a_{n}(x-2)^{n}\) converges for \(x=-1\) and diverges for \(x=6 .\) Answer true \((\mathrm{T})\) , false \((\mathrm{F})\) , or not enough information given \((\mathrm{N})\) for the following statements about the series. $$ \begin{array}{l}{\text { a. Converges absolutely for } x=1} \\ {\text { b. Diverges for } x=-6} \\ {\text { c. Diverges for } x=2} \\ {\text { d. Converges for } x=0} \\ {\text { e. Converges absolutely for } x=5} \\\ {\text { f. Diverges for } x=4.9} \\ {\text { g. Diverges for } x=5.1} \\\ {\text { a. Diverges for } x=5.1} \\ {\text { h. Converges absolutely for } x=4}\end{array} $$

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
a: True, b: True, c: False, d: True, e: False, f: False, g: True, h: False.
1Step 1: Identify the Convergence Information
To solve the problem, we need to understand the convergence properties of the series \( \sum a_n (x-2)^n \). It's given that the series converges when \(x = -1\) and diverges when \(x = 6\). This indicates that the interval of convergence is between these two values with the radius of convergence \( R \) around the center \( x = 2 \). This implies \( |-1 - 2| = 3 \) for convergence at \( x = -1 \) and \( |6 - 2| = 4 \) for divergence at \( x = 6 \). Hence, the center is 2 with radius 3, having \(-1\leq x \leq 5 \).
2Step 2: Evaluate Statements About Convergence
a. For \( x = 1 \), check \(|x - 2| < R\): |-1| = 1 < 3. **True, converges absolutely.**b. For \( x = -6 \), check \( |-6 - 2| = 8\). **True, diverges as it is outside interval.**c. For \( x = 2 \), the series is centered at 2. **False, this is the center, series convergent.** d. For \( x = 0 \), check \(|0-2| = 2 < 3\). **True, converges.** e. For \( x = 5 \), check \(|5-2| = 3\): **False, it converges but not absolutely. (At boundary of convergence)** f. For \( x = 4.9 \), check \(|4.9-2| = 2.9 < 3 \). **False, converges not diverges as it is in interval.** g. For \( x = 5.1 \), check \(|5.1-2| = 3.1 > 3\). **True, diverges as it is outside interval.** h. For \( x = 4 \), check \(|4-2|=2

Key Concepts

Radius of ConvergenceAbsolute ConvergenceDivergenceInterval of Convergence
Radius of Convergence
The radius of convergence is a fundamental concept in understanding the behavior of a power series, such as \(\sum a_n (x-2)^n\). It helps us determine how far from the center (in this case, 2) the series will still converge. This distance is called the radius of convergence, represented by \( R \).

In the given exercise, the series converges for \( x = -1 \), and diverges for \( x = 6 \). This tells us the boundary of convergence is closer at -1 and farther at 6.
  • The distance from 2 to -1 is \( |-1 - 2| = 3 \).
  • The distance from 2 to 6 is \( |6 - 2| = 4 \), indicating the divergence.
When assessing convergence using the radius, always check whether the distance \(|x-2|\) is less than \( R = 3 \). If it is less, the series will converge at that point. Knowing \( R \) is crucial for determining the series' behavior within an interval centered around 2.
Absolute Convergence
Absolute convergence is when a series converges not just for the terms themselves, but also when all terms are made positive by taking absolute values. This form of convergence is stronger than regular convergence. If a series converges absolutely, it also converges normally.

Consider the series in the exercise:If you want to check absolute convergence for a particular value, say \( x = 1 \), you calculate \(|x-2|\) and compare with \( R \) = 3:
  • \(|1 - 2| = 1\) is less than 3, suggesting convergence.Absolute convergence often requires checking whether the series of \(|a_n|(x-2)^n\) converges.
  • For instance, at a boundary like \( x = 5 \) (\(|5 - 2| = 3\)), it converges but not absolutely since it lies right on the edge.
Keep in mind, absolute convergence at a point implies strong convergence is present, ensuring stability within that region.
Divergence
Divergence occurs when a series does not settle on a finite limit, meaning it grows beyond bounds as more terms are added. In simple terms, it means getting bigger and bigger without stopping.

In the present scenario:The series diverges for \( x = 6 \). This helps set a frame for understanding the limits:
  • If \(|x-2|\) becomes greater than 3 (\( R = 3 \)), divergence will happen.
  • For example, at \( x = 5.1 \) where \(|5.1 - 2| = 3.1\) exceeds 3, divergence will be expected.
    • Divergence checks are essential when determining the edges of a series' behavior, ensuring comprehension of where stability drops.
Interval of Convergence
The interval of convergence defines the range of \( x \) values for which a series converges. Within this range, every point satisfies convergence conditions.

For the exercise's series around center 2:The given points establish \(-1 \le x \le 5\) as the interval. This is found using:
  • Given convergence at \( x = -1 \) establishing one boundary through \( |-1 - 2| = 3 \).
  • Checking against divergence at \( x = 6 \) verifies limits across boundaries for \(|6 - 2|\).
Within this range:
  • Any \( x \) complying with \(|x - 2| < 3\)fits inside the interval for regular convergence.
  • Close margins, such as those near boundaries like \( x = 5 \), warrant careful consideration for energies of absolute versus regular limits.
These concepts ensure understanding of the regions with finite responses against growing sizes.