Infinite series

Tests for series divergence

The following is a summary of tests available for the divergence of infinite series.

NamePrincipleWhen to use
Test for divergence by sequence limitlim𝑛𝑎𝑛 0 DNEObvious cases
Integral test𝑛=1𝑎𝑛 and 1𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑥 both converge or diverge𝑎𝑛 is extendible to an integratable positive decreasing function
Comparison testAnalogous to the squeeze theoremA divergent lower bound or convergent upper bound is known.
Limit comparison testCompare the ratio between two sequencesSame as above, but series which approach multiples of each other are especially useful
Alternating series testTest for divergence becomes necessary and sufficient for alternating seriesAny alternating sequence, which is absolutely non-increasing for large 𝑛
Absolute convergenceAbsolutely convergent convergent𝑛=1|𝑎𝑛| is convergent
Ratio test for absolute convergenceA ratio of subsequent terms less than one implies the series is bound by the geometric seriesAbsolute ratio of subsequent terms can be found.


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