Australian HSC maths extension 2 test question

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a specific problem from the Australian HSC Maths Extension 2 test, particularly question 8b, which involves evaluating the area under the curve defined by y=1/x from x=n-1 to x=n. The conclusion establishes that e^{-\frac{n}{n-1}} < \left(1-\frac{1}{n}\right)^n < e^{-1} by demonstrating that the integral of 1/x lies between two rectangles. Key steps include manipulating inequalities and using logarithmic properties to derive the final result.

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Homework Statement


This question is from the Australian HSC maths extension 2 test. Q8b)

Let n be a positive integer greater than 1.

The area of the region under the curve y=1/x from x=n-1 to x=n is between the areas of two rectangles.

Show that [tex]e^{-\frac{n}{n-1}}<\left(1-\frac{1}{n}\right)^n<e^{-1}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



The area under the curve is more than the smaller rectangle but less than the larger rectangle.

Thus, [tex]\frac{1}{n}<\int^n_{n-1}\frac{dx}{x}<\frac{1}{n-1}[/tex]

After manipulating somewhat:

[tex]\frac{1}{n}<ln\left(\frac{n}{n-1}\right)<\frac{1}{n-1}[/tex]

[tex]e^{\frac{1}{n}}<\frac{n}{n-1}<e^{\frac{1}{n-1}}[/tex]

but I'm unsure how to get to the answer...
 
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try inverting everything as a next step, then consider raising everything to a power
 


The reciprocal... how could I miss that... thanks lanedance.
 

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