Can we extend the inequality 0 < sin x < x to sin(x/2), sin(x/5), and sin(3x)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the extension of the inequality \(0 < \sin x < x\) to other sine functions, specifically \( \sin(x/2) \), \( \sin(x/5) \), and \( \sin(3x) \). Participants explore the conditions under which these inequalities hold, considering the ranges of \(x\) involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that if \(0 < \sin x < x\) holds for \(0 < x < \pi/2\), then it can be extended to \(0 < \sin(x/2) < x/2\) for suitable ranges of \(x\).
  • Others propose that the same reasoning applies to \(0 < \sin(x/5) < x/5\) under similar conditions.
  • There is a suggestion that for \(0 < \sin(3x) < 3x\) to hold, \(3x\) must also fall within a range where the original inequality is valid.
  • Some participants emphasize the importance of adjusting the range of \(x\) when applying the inequality to different arguments of the sine function.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the inequalities can be extended to the new sine functions under certain conditions, but there is no consensus on the specific ranges required for each case, leading to multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the conditions for the inequalities depend on the ranges of \(x\) and that changing the variable affects the validity of the inequalities. However, the exact nature of these ranges remains unresolved.

Leong
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Given that 0 < sin x < x is true for 0 < x < π/2.
From the above, can we conclude that 0 < sin (x/2) < x/2? How about 0 < sin (x/5) < x/5? Why?
How about 0<sin 3x < 3x ? Why?
 
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For suitable ranges of x, sure.

If you replace x by x/2 everywhere consistently, you don't change anything, you just replaced your variable. An analogy would be to replace all "x" by "y".

0 < sin y < y is true for 0 < y < π/2
Now define y=x/2.
 
mfb said:
For suitable ranges of x, sure.

If you replace x by x/2 everywhere consistently, you don't change anything, you just replaced your variable. An analogy would be to replace all "x" by "y".

0 < sin y < y is true for 0 < y < π/2
Now define y=x/2.
Thank you very much for the explanation.
 
Leong said:
Given that 0 < sin x < x is true for 0 < x < π/2.
From the above, can we conclude that 0 < sin (x/2) < x/2? How about 0 < sin (x/5) < x/5? Why?
How about 0<sin 3x < 3x ? Why?

Yes, but you also have to change your range:

##0 < \sin x < x ## for ##0 < x < \pi/2##

Is equivalent to:

##0 < \sin x/2 < x/2 ## for ##0 < x < \pi##
 
PeroK said:
Yes, but you also have to change your range:

##0 < \sin x < x ## for ##0 < x < \pi/2##

Is equivalent to:

##0 < \sin x/2 < x/2 ## for ##0 < x < \pi##
:ok::thumbup:
 
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Leong said:
Given that 0 < sin x < x is true for 0 < x < π/2.
From the above, can we conclude that 0 < sin (x/2) < x/2? How about 0 < sin (x/5) < x/5? Why?
How about 0<sin 3x < 3x ? Why?
Essentially, as long as 0<x/2< ##\pi/2## (although this is not an iff condition) , same for 3x; you want 3x to fall within an interval where the property holds. This is essentially a change of variable.
 

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