In: Math
In this exercise, we examine one of the conditions of the Alternating Series Test. Consider the alternating series
1−1+1/2−1/4+1/3−1/9+1/4−1/16+⋯,
where the terms are selected alternately from the sequences {1/n} and {−1/n^2}.
Explain why the nth term of the given series converges to 0 as n goes to infinity.
Rewrite the given series by grouping terms in the following manner:
(1−1)+(1/2−1/4)+(1/3−1/9)+(1/4−1/16)+⋯.
Use this regrouping to determine if the series converges or diverges.
Explain why the condition that the sequence {an}{an} decreases to a limit of 0 is included in the Alternating Series Test.