MT194 Examples 7

Please hand in November 24th

1. Let a1 = 0 and
2 + an−1
an = if n ≥ 2.
3 + an−1
Prove by induction (only a short argument is needed) that 0 < an < 1 for all n ≥ 2.
Calculate an (say to 6 significant figures) for 2 ≤ n ≤ 6. Let ` be the limit of the sequence,
if it exists. Write down the quadratic that ` must satisfy and identify which of the two
roots is a possible limit for the sequence. Express an − ` in terms of an−1 and ` as in
corresponding examples (and theorem) in your notes. Hence prove that xn = an − ` is a
null sequence, and deduce that √
an → 3 − 1.

2. Let the sequence an be given by:

1
a1 = 1, an = 1 + for n ≥ 2.
an−1

Show, by induction, that 23 ≤ an ≤ 2 for all n ≥ 2. If an tends to a limit `, write down the
quadratic equation that ` must satisfy, and determine which root is the correct value. By
expressing an − ` in terms of an−1 − ` show that xn = an − ` is a null sequence. Deduce
that √
1+ 5
an → .
2

1 1
3. Let an = (n + 1) 3 − n 3 . By using the identity x3 − y 3 = (x − y)(x2√+ xy + y√
2
), or
otherwise, show that an is a null-sequence. Hint: compare the example n + 1 − n in
your notes.