Sum of Terms of an Infinite PG

The sum of the terms of a finite geometric progression is given by the expression:

, where q (ratio) is different from 1. Some cases in which the ratio q belongs to the interval –1 < q < 1, we verify that when the number of elements n approaches infinity (+∞), the expression what^no tends to zero value. Therefore, replacing what^no by zero in the expression of the sum of terms of a finite PG we will have an expression capable of determining the sum of terms of an infinite PG within the interval –1 < q < 1, note:

Example 1
Determine the sum of the elements of the following PG:  .

Example 2

The mathematical expression of the sum of terms of an infinite PG is recommended in obtaining the generating fraction of a simple or compound periodic decimal. Watch the demo.
Considering the simple periodic decimal 0.222222..., let's determine its generating fraction.

Example 3

Let's determine the fraction that gives rise to the following decimal number 0.231313..., classified as a composite periodic decimal.

Example 4

Find the sum of the elements of the geometric progression given by (0.3; 0,03; 0,003; 0,0003; ...).

by Mark Noah
Graduated in Mathematics
Brazil School Team

Progressions - Math - Brazil School

Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/matematica/soma-dos-termos-uma-pg-infinita.htm