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Sequences and their limits
What it means for aₙ to approach L, and the limits that define e and π.
A sequence converges to L when its terms eventually stay as close to L as you like. That “as you like” is the ε in every analysis proof. (1 + 1/n)ⁿ creeps up to e; n/(n + 1) creeps up to 1; (−1)ⁿ never settles. The graph shows the terms approaching the limit.
Worked example · limit of (1 + 1/n)^n as n -> oo
Limit of (1 + 1/n)^n as n → oo
Step by step
- \lim_{n \to \infty^+-} \left(1 + \frac{1}{n}\right)^{n}
Try direct substitution first.
- \
As x grows without bound, compare the fastest-growing terms (or divide top and bottom by the highest power).
- = e
Take the limit.
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How to: Sequences and their limits
- Try direct substitution first.
- As x grows without bound, compare the fastest-growing terms (or divide top and bottom by the highest power).
- Take the limit.
Questions people ask
What is the ε, δ definition actually saying?
That you can make the output as close to the limit as anyone demands (within ε) by keeping the input close enough (within δ). It replaces "approaches" with a challenge-and-response that can be checked.
Why does the harmonic series diverge when its terms go to zero?
Because the terms shrink too slowly: group them as 1/3 + 1/4 > 1/2, 1/5 + … + 1/8 > 1/2, and so on: infinitely many halves.
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