Jason Z's question at Yahoo Answers (Maclaurin series cuestion)

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In summary, a Maclaurin series is a type of mathematical series that represents a function as an infinite sum of terms, centered at x=0 and used to approximate more complex functions. To calculate a Maclaurin series, the function must be centered at x=0 and the series is found by taking derivatives of the function at that point. The significance of a Maclaurin series lies in its ability to simplify calculations and its usefulness in calculus and mathematical analysis. The main difference between a Maclaurin series and a Taylor series is the center point, with the former being centered at x=0 and the latter being able to be centered at any point. Not all functions can be represented by a Maclaurin
  • #1
Fernando Revilla
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Here is the question:

Find the coefficient of x^3 in the macluarin series for sinxcosx

show work please and thank you!

Here is a link to the question:

Maclaurin Series Question? - Yahoo! Answers

I have posted a link there to this topic so the OP can find my response.
 
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  • #2
Hello Jason Z,

We have $\sin x\cos x=\dfrac{1}{2}\sin 2x$. On the other hand for all $t\in\mathbb{R}$, $\sin t= t-\dfrac{t^3}{3!}+\ldots$ so $$\sin x\cos x=\frac{1}{2}\left(2x-\frac{(2x)^3}{3!}+\ldots\right)\Rightarrow \mbox{coef. }(x^3)=\frac{1}{2}\cdot \frac{8}{6}=\frac{2}{3}$$
 

Related to Jason Z's question at Yahoo Answers (Maclaurin series cuestion)

1. What is a Maclaurin series?

A Maclaurin series is a type of mathematical series that represents a function as an infinite sum of terms. It is centered at x=0 and is a special case of the Taylor series. It is used to approximate a function by adding up simpler functions, making it easier to calculate more complex functions.

2. How is a Maclaurin series calculated?

To calculate a Maclaurin series, the function must be centered at x=0 and then the series can be found by taking derivatives of the function at that point. The general formula for a Maclaurin series is f(x) = f(0) + f'(0)x + f''(0)x²/2! + f'''(0)x³/3! + ...

3. What is the significance of a Maclaurin series?

Maclaurin series are significant because they allow for the approximation of complex functions with simpler ones, making it easier to perform calculations. They are also useful in calculus and mathematical analysis for finding derivatives, integrals, and other properties of functions.

4. What is the difference between a Maclaurin series and a Taylor series?

The main difference between a Maclaurin series and a Taylor series is the center point. A Maclaurin series is centered at x=0, while a Taylor series can be centered at any point. Additionally, a Maclaurin series is a special case of a Taylor series where the center point is x=0.

5. Can all functions be represented by a Maclaurin series?

No, not all functions can be represented by a Maclaurin series. The function must be analytic, which means it must have a continuous and unique derivative at every point in its domain. Functions that are not analytic, such as the absolute value function, cannot be represented by a Maclaurin series.

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