Calculus II

Calculus II delves into advanced integration techniques, series, and applications of calculus to real-world problems.

Basic Concepts

Sequences and Series

Infinite Processes

Sequences and series introduce you to the world of infinity! A sequence is just a list of numbers in a specific order, while a series is what you get when you add those numbers together.

Types of Series

  • Geometric Series: Each term is multiplied by a constant to get the next.
  • Telescoping Series: Many terms cancel each other.
  • p-Series: Series of the form \( \sum \frac{1}{n^p} \).

Convergence and Divergence

Not all series add up to a finite number. Learning to test for convergence (like the Ratio Test or the Alternating Series Test) is key.

Where You'll See This

  • Calculating interest in finance
  • Modeling populations
  • Approximating functions with polynomials

Examples

  • Determine if \( \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{n^2} \) converges.

  • Find the sum of \( \sum_{n=0}^{\infty} 2 \left( \frac{1}{3} \right)^n \).

In a Nutshell

Sequences and series allow you to work with infinite sums and understand long-term behavior.