Don't know if I got this right. Prove n^2>n+1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the inequality n^2 > n + 1 for n ≥ 2 using mathematical induction. Participants are exploring the principles of induction and how to apply them to this specific inequality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the inductive step by assuming the statement holds for n = k and then attempting to prove it for n = k + 1. There are questions about the necessity of showing multiple steps in the proof process.

Discussion Status

Some participants are actively working through the inductive proof, while others are questioning the approach and the number of steps required. There is a focus on ensuring clarity in the reasoning behind each step taken in the proof.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the assumption that the proof must be rigorous and demonstrate the transition from P(k) to P(k+1) without skipping steps. There is an implicit understanding of the rules of mathematical induction being applied.

torquerotates
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Homework Statement


The principal of mathematical induction can be extended as follows. A list P(m),P(m+1)... of propositions is true provided 1)P(m) is true, 2) P(n+1) is true whenever P(n) is true and n>(or =) m

I have to use the above to prove that n^2>n+1 for n>(or equal to) 2


Homework Equations


n^2>n+1 for n>(or equal to) 2




The Attempt at a Solution



so I said m=n+1

Then since I assume that the original statement implies that I hold m constant and increase n by 1

Inductive step (n+1)^2>(n+1)
=> n+1>1 True b/c {1,2,3,...n}=N
 
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torquerotates said:

The Attempt at a Solution



so I said m=n+1

Then since I assume that the original statement implies that I hold m constant and increase n by 1

Inductive step (n+1)^2>(n+1)
=> n+1>1 True b/c {1,2,3,...n}=N

Assume true for n=k

[itex]k^2>k+1 for k \geq 2[/itex]

+(2k+1)
[itex]k^2+2k+1>k+1+2k+1[/itex]

and [itex]k^2+2k+1=(k+1)^2[/itex] which is what you need on the left side. Deal with the right side now.
 
Right side: (k+1+2k+1)=(2k+k+2)>(k+2)

Right?
 
torquerotates said:
Right side: (k+1+2k+1)=(2k+k+2)>(k+2)

Right?

2k+k+2>k+2 => 3k>k which is true so that 2k+k+2>k+2 is true

and now you have

(k+1)^2>2k+k+2>k+2
 
Why do you have to show that many steps?
 
Because that is to show how P(k) => P(k+1) instead of putting n=k+1 in the formula and showing it is true.
 

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