Applications of Integral Test

The applications of integral tests are as follows:

  • Determining convergence of series with non-elementary terms.
  • Analyzing the convergence of alternating series.
  • Estimating the sum of series with known integrals.
  • Investigating the convergence of power series.
  • Studying the behavior of series involving trigonometric functions.

Integral Test

Integral Test is one of the simplest methods in calculus taught in terms of proving convergence or divergence in a given infinite series. It exhibits a connection between a series and an improper integral. By comparing a series to the integral of its terms, one can draw certain conclusions about the series. This test is particularly useful when dealing with series that involve functions that are difficult to analyze directly.

In this article, we will learn in detail about integral test, condition for integral test, its application and solved examples based on it.

Similar Reads

What is the Integral Test?

The Integral Test is a test used in calculus to assess the convergence or divergence of an infinite series given in terms of the comparison with an improper integral. It states that if a series [Tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} a_n[/Tex] is positive, decreasing, and continuous, then the series converges if and only if the corresponding improper integral [Tex]\int_{1}^{\infty} f(x) \, dx[/Tex] converges. This test is important because it is one method through which one can determine the convergence of some series whose terms do not follow a straightforward pattern or formula for their terms....

Integral Test for Convergence

The Integral Test is used to determine the convergence of an infinite series by comparing it to an improper integral. Given a series [Tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} a_n[/Tex] with positive terms, if the function f(x) = an is positive, decreasing, and continuous for all [Tex] x \geq 1[/Tex] then the series converges if and only if the integral [Tex] \int_{1}^{\infty} f(x) \, dx[/Tex] converges. The derivation involves establishing the relationship between the series and the integral, ensuring the conditions for the Integral Test are met, and then evaluating the integral to determine convergence....

Comparison Test

Comparison test is used in the determination of the convergence of a series through comparison to its co-efficient series whose convergence is known. The thought process is to look for a series whose status of convergence is either proven or can be used to compare with the given series....

Applications of Integral Test

The applications of integral tests are as follows:...

Solved Examples on Integral Test

Example 1: Determine the convergence of the series [Tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^p}[/Tex] using the Integral Test....

Practice Questions on the Integral Test

Q1: Determine the convergence or divergence of the series [Tex]\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^2 + n}[/Tex] using the Integral Test....

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Integral Test is a valuable tool in calculus for analyzing the convergence of infinite series by relating them to improper integrals. By establishing conditions for convergence, comparing series to integrals, and rigorously proving convergence or divergence, this test provides a systematic approach to understanding the behavior of series with complex terms. Its applications extend to various mathematical contexts, making it a fundamental technique in the study of infinite series....

FAQs on Integral Test

What is the purpose of an integral test?...