The Abel test is often spelled incorrectly as "able test." Its correct spelling is derived from the name of Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel, who made significant contributions to the development of mathematical analysis. In IPA phonetic transcription, the correct spelling is /ˈɑːbəl tɛst/, with a long "a" sound at the beginning and emphasis on the second syllable. Remembering the correct spelling can help to ensure accurate communication in technical or academic contexts.
The Abel test is a mathematical theorem used in the field of analysis to determine the convergence or divergence of series. Specifically, it provides a criterion for the convergence of infinite series that involves the alternating behavior of the terms in the series.
In its simplest form, the Abel test states that if a series, ∑(n=1 to ∞) a(n)b(n), satisfies two conditions, namely: 1) the sequence a(n) is monotonically decreasing, meaning that a(n+1) ≤ a(n) for all n, and 2) the sequence a(n) converges to zero as n approaches infinity, then the series ∑(n=1 to ∞) a(n)b(n) is convergent.
This theorem is named after the Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel, who contributed significantly to various areas of mathematics in the early 19th century.
The Abel test is particularly useful in analyzing series where one sequence of terms exhibits alternating behavior. By satisfying the conditions mentioned, it allows mathematicians to determine the convergence of a series and make conclusions about its overall behavior. This test aids in understanding the convergence properties of various mathematical concepts and is valuable in both pure and applied mathematics.
The term "Abel test" is derived from the name of the Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel (1802-1829).
Niels Henrik Abel is renowned for his significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the study of number theory and analysis. His work on the convergence and divergence of infinite series led to the development of what is now known as Abel's test or Abel's criterion.
Abel's test is a theorem in calculus that provides a necessary and sufficient condition for the convergence of a power series. This test is named after him as he first demonstrated its validity.
Therefore, the term "Abel test" is so named in recognition of Niels Henrik Abel's contribution to math and his pioneering work on the convergence and divergence of infinite series.