53891312
Apply the integral test to \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\frac1{n^2}\). Verify every required hypothesis and classify the series.
Hints
- Choose a function \(f(x)\) whose values at positive integers equal the series terms.
- Verify that \(f\) is positive, continuous, and decreasing on the required interval.
- Evaluate the corresponding improper integral; the integral test classifies convergence but does not give the exact series sum.
Solution
1. Let \(f(x)=\frac1{x^2}\). Then \(f(n)=\frac1{n^2}\), and \(f\) is positive and continuous for \(x\ge1\).
2. Since \(f'(x)=-\frac{2}{x^3}<0\) for \(x\ge1\), \(f\) is decreasing there.
3. \(\int_{1}^{\infty}f(x)\,dx=\lim_{b\to\infty}\left[-\frac1x\right]_{1}^{b}=1\), which is finite.
4. Therefore the series converges by the integral test.
Answer
For \(f(x)=1/x^2\), \(f\) is positive, continuous, and decreasing on \([1,\infty)\), and \(\int_1^{\infty}x^{-2}\,dx=1\). Therefore the series converges by the integral test.
