Proving Inequality: 1/(n+1) <= ln(1+1/n) <= 1/n

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the inequality \( \frac{1}{n+1} \leq \ln\left(1+\frac{1}{n}\right) \leq \frac{1}{n} \), which involves concepts from calculus and logarithmic properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the application of logarithmic properties and the squeeze principle. Some suggest sketching curves and evaluating areas under them to understand the inequality better.

Discussion Status

There are various approaches being discussed, including the use of graphical methods and the squeeze theorem. Some participants express confusion about certain concepts, while others provide hints and references to related problems.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention needing to apply definitions related to logarithms and exponential functions, indicating a focus on foundational concepts in their reasoning.

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how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..
 
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I'm not quite sure if this is correct, but some things I noticed might be of help:

1. Well, one part of the inequality is trivial. It is quite clear that 1/(n+1) <= 1/n.
2. If you multiply all sides by n (and apply the logarithmic property to the middle term), you will find the inequality easier, most likely.
3. Try applying the "squeeze principle."

Hope that helps! :)
 
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what's the squeeze principle, is that the pinching theorem?
also the reason i asked this question was because like u mentioned, it's kind of obvious but i was wondering what else it might involve besides just knowing that 1/(n+1) <= 1/n.
 
matrix_204 said:
how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..

Try this :

Sketch the curve [tex]y = \frac{1}{1 + x}[/tex] for the domain of [tex]x \geq 0[/tex]

Now demarcate the area under the curve bounded by the vertical lines [tex]x = 0[/tex] and [tex]x = \frac{1}{n}[/tex]

Find the ordinates (y-values) at those x-values. Come up with two rectangles that form upper and lower bounds for the area and work out their areas in terms of n.

Now evaluate the same area exactly using definite integration. What can you now see ?
 
matrix_204 said:
how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..
You've already solved this problem! Let x=(1 + 1/n) and go here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=62897

[tex]:(1): \ \ \ \ \frac {x - 1} {x} \ \leq \ ln(x) \ \leq \ (x - 1)[/tex]

[tex]:(2): \ \ \ \ x = 1 + \frac {1} {n}[/tex]

[tex]:(3): \ \ \ \ \frac {1} {n + 1} \ \leq \ ln(1 + \frac {1} {n}) \ \leq \ \frac {1} {n}[/tex]




~~
 
oooh i didn't even notice that, ok so this one i have done it, now there is another similar type of problem, except this one involves e, it goes like this;
(1+1/n)^n<= e <=(1+1/n)^n+1
do i solve this one by finding the logs of all these functions, since its a power of n and so forth..(n+1)
 

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