Divisor Function t(n): Proving $2n*(n)^{1/2}$

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the divisor function t(n), specifically exploring the inequality t(n) < 2*(n)^{1/2}. Participants are attempting to prove this relationship through various mathematical approaches, including prime factorization and logarithmic properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants define t(n) as the number of positive divisors of n, including 1 and n.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the original claim involving the formula $2n*(n)^{1/2}$ and its relation to t(n).
  • Another participant proposes that t(n) < 2*(n)^{1/2} and seeks to prove this inequality.
  • A participant suggests using the prime factorization of n to express t(n) as (k1+1)(k2+1)(k3+1)... and considers taking logarithms to analyze the inequality.
  • One participant introduces an iterative proof approach, starting with k=1 and attempting to generalize for k+1, while exploring the implications of factorial growth in relation to the inequality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the original claim or the best approach to prove the inequality. Multiple competing views and methods are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions regarding the properties of the divisor function and the behavior of factorials in relation to the inequality are not fully explored or resolved. The discussion includes various mathematical steps that remain incomplete.

peteryellow
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Let t(n) be the divisor function, i.e., the function gives the positive divisors in n including 1 and n. Then I want to show that

$2n*(n)^{1/2}.$

I have tried different ideas but nothing is working can somebody please give some hints.
 
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peteryellow said:
Let t(n) be the divisor function, i.e., the function gives the positive divisors in n including 1 and n. Then I want to show that

$2n*(n)^{1/2}.$

I have tried different ideas but nothing is working can somebody please give some hints.
I'm sorry, I don't understand what it is you want to prove. Is that last formula just [itex]2nn^{1/2}= 2n^{3/2}[/itex] and what does it have to do with t(n)?
 
soory .

t(n) = divisor function, i.e., number of positive divisors of n including n and 1.

Then I want to show that t(n) < 2*(n)^{1/2}. I mean 2 times squareroot of n.
 
If the prime factorization of n is p1^k1 . p2^k2 . p3^k3 . ..., then t(n) = (k1+1)(k2+2)(k3+3)... Using this, and the fact that the logarithm function is monotonic, maybe (just maybe) taking logs on both sides of the inequality might help. Just an idea.
 
Dodo:
then t(n) = (k1+1)(k2+2)(k3+3)
You started in interesting direction, but [tex]f(n) = k![/tex] where [tex]k=\sum(k_i)[/tex]

Let's start iterative theorem prove:
k=1
then [tex]t(n)=1[/tex] and [tex]1<2\sqrt{n}[/tex] for any [tex]n>1[/tex].

Prove for k+1
[tex]t(n)=(k+1)!=k!(k+1)[/tex]
Now we have to prove that [tex]k!(k+1) < 2\sqrt{n}[/tex]
Let's suppose that it's not true. Divide both sides on k+1, than we'll have [tex]k! > \frac{2}{k+1}\sqrt{n}[/tex] (1). But we know that [tex]k!<2\sqrt{n}[/tex] and [tex]\frac{2}{k+1}\sqrt{n}<2\sqrt{n}[/tex].

This means that (1) is impossible and [tex]k!(k+1) < 2\sqrt{n}[/tex] is true.
 

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