What is the explanation for the inequality in Rudin 1.21?

  • Thread starter Unassuming
  • Start date
In summary, Rudin 1.21 states that the identity b^{n} - a^{n}= (b-a)(b^{n-1} + b^{n-2}a + ... + a^{n-1}) can be used to prove the inequality b^{n} - a^{n} < (b-a)nb^{n-1}. This can be shown by setting b=a and noticing that the second term on the right side becomes (b-a)nb^{n-1}, proving the desired inequality. This is a clever use of the identity and helps to explain how the inequality is derived.
  • #1
Unassuming
167
0
In Rudin 1.21 he says the following in the midst of proving a theorem,

"The identity b[tex]^{n}[/tex] - a[tex]^{n}[/tex]= (b-a)(b[tex]^{n-1}[/tex] + b[tex]^{n-2}[/tex]a + ... + a[tex]^{n-1}[/tex]) yields the inequality

b[tex]^{n}[/tex] - a[tex]^{n}[/tex] < (b-a)nb[tex]^{n-1}[/tex] when 0 < a < b"

I can understand that it is less than, but I cannot understand how it is coming (yielding) from the identity.

Any explanation would be greatly appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Try seeing what happens to the second term on the right side when b=a.
 
  • #3
Vid's point is that:

[tex]b^n-a^n=(b-a)(b^{n-1}+b^{n-2}a+...+ba^{n-2}+a^{n-1})<(b-a)\underbrace{(b^{n-1}+b^{n-2}b+...+bb^{n-2}+b^{n-1})}=(b-a)nb^{n-1}[/tex] since a<b
 
  • #4
...that's clever. Thank you.
 

1. What is the inequality in Rudin 1.21?

The inequality in Rudin 1.21 is a mathematical expression that states the relationship between two numbers or variables, where one is greater than the other. It is written using mathematical symbols such as <, >, ≤, and ≥.

2. What does Rudin 1.21 explain?

Rudin 1.21 explains the inequality between two numbers or variables and provides a mathematical proof for it. It is a fundamental concept in mathematics and is used in various fields such as calculus, geometry, and statistics.

3. How is the inequality in Rudin 1.21 derived?

The inequality in Rudin 1.21 is derived using mathematical principles and axioms. It involves logical reasoning and uses previously established theorems and properties to prove the inequality. The specific steps may vary depending on the context and application of the inequality.

4. Why is the inequality in Rudin 1.21 important?

The inequality in Rudin 1.21 is important because it is a fundamental concept in mathematics and is used to compare and order numbers and variables. It also plays a crucial role in solving equations and inequalities, as well as in proving other mathematical theorems.

5. How is the inequality in Rudin 1.21 used in real life?

The inequality in Rudin 1.21 is used in various real-life situations, such as in economics to compare prices and incomes, in engineering to determine the strength of materials, and in statistics to analyze data. It is also used in everyday situations, such as comparing the heights or weights of individuals, to determine who is taller or heavier.

Similar threads

  • Calculus
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
24
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
924
Replies
22
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
737
Back
Top