Question:medium

If \( A = 1 + r^a + r^{2a} + r^{3a} + \dots \infty \) and \( B = 1 + r^b + r^{2b} + r^{3b} + \dots \infty \), then \( \frac{a}{b} \) is equal.

Show Hint

For problems involving geometric series and logs, transform the series into their sum formula first, then apply logarithmic identities.
Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
  • \( \log_{b}(A) \)
  • \( \log_{1-b}(1 - A) \)
  • \( \log_\frac{b-1}{b} \left(\frac{A-1}{A}\right) \)
  • None of these
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

To resolve the problem, it is necessary to recognize that both \( A \) and \( B \) represent geometric series. The given series can be expressed in their standard geometric forms: \[ A = 1 + r^a + r^{2a} + r^{3a} + \dots \] This is an infinite geometric series with a first term \( T_1 = 1 \) and a common ratio of \( r^a \). The formula for the sum of an infinite geometric series is: \[ S = \frac{T_1}{1-r} \] Applying this formula to series \( A \), we get: \[ A = \frac{1}{1-r^a} \] (This assumes \( |r^a|<1 \)). Similarly, series \( B = 1 + r^b + r^{2b} + r^{3b} + \dots \) can be converted to its standard form: \[ B = \frac{1}{1-r^b} \] (This assumes \( |r^b|<1 \)). Next, we equate \( \frac{a}{b} \) to an expression that incorporates \( A \) and \( B \). Utilizing the following relationship1: \[ \frac{1-r^a}{1-r^b} = \frac{B(A-1)}{A(B-1)} \] Taking the logarithm of both sides simplifies the expression to: \[ \frac{a}{b} = \log_\frac{b-1}{b} \left(\frac{A-1}{A}\right) \] Consequently, the definitive answer is \( \log_\frac{b-1}{b} \left(\frac{A-1}{A}\right) \). This solution is achieved by articulating the ratio \( \frac{a}{b} \) in terms of the series sums \( A \) and \( B \), employing a suitable logarithmic form to connect these expressions.
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