← Senior Mathematics Studio

LEARN · EXPLAIN · REVISE

Evaluate the convergent telescoping series.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

Return to the lesson / paper ↗

T04高二理組數學思維本(2026).pdf · III. Series; infinite geometric series · PDF 35 / printed page 34

Revisit first: Geometric sequences

TOPIC 01

Infinite geometric series and error control

Check convergence before summing and interpret recurring decimals and truncation errors.

What you will be able to explain

  • Check convergence before summing and interpret recurring decimals and truncation errors.
  • Justify the method and check the conditions in a new situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Standard#Your turn

Evaluate the convergent telescoping series.

∑n=1∞12n(n+1)\sum_{n=1}^{\infty}\frac{12}{n(n+1)}
  • For nonzero a, convergence requires |q|<1; a finite partial sum formula does not by itself establish an infinite sum.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Write the defining equation, retain exclusions, and then solve or compare.
Hint 2
Finite partial sum=t(1−1/(N+1)).
Worked solution
  1. Write the defining equation, retain exclusions, and then solve or compare.

  2. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    SN=12(1−1/(N+1))S_N=12(1-1/(N+1))
  3. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    N→∞⇒S=12N\to\infty\Rightarrow S=12
  4. First justify a finite telescoping identity, then take its limit.

The requested value is 12.

Checks and common pitfalls: First justify a finite telescoping identity, then take its limit.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Check convergence before summing and interpret recurring decimals and truncation errors.
  • Which condition is essential in infinite geometric series and error control?
  • Does a negative ratio prevent an infinite geometric sum?

Board plan

  • Model or definition: Check convergence before summing and interpret recurring decimals and truncation errors.
    S∞=a/(1−q)(∣q∣<1)S_\infty=a/(1-q)\quad(|q|<1)
  • Conditions: For nonzero a, convergence requires |q|<1; a finite partial sum formula does not by itself establish an infinite sum.

Anticipated thinking

  • An oscillating partial-sum sequence with q=−1 does not converge.

Assessment checklist

  • 1 mark: choose the correct representation and conditions.
  • 1 mark: establish the intermediate relation.
  • 1 mark: complete a connected calculation or proof.
  • 1 mark: interpret and check the conclusion.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗