How did my colleague conclude on equation (ii)?

  • Thread starter Thread starter chwala
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Induction Proof
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the inequality \( (n+1)! \geq 2^n n \) for \( n \geq 3 \) using mathematical induction. Participants are examining the steps leading to a specific conclusion regarding the relationship between factorials and powers of two.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the validity of the assumptions made in the proof, particularly regarding the transition from \( (k+1)! \) to \( (k+2)! \). There is a focus on clarifying the inductive step and whether the inequalities presented are correct.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different interpretations of the inductive proof. Some have suggested alternative approaches and questioned the complexity of the existing proof, indicating a search for a more straightforward method.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on ensuring the assumptions made in the proof align with the intended conclusion, particularly in the context of mathematical induction. Participants are also reflecting on the clarity and efficiency of the proof presented.

chwala
Gold Member
Messages
2,835
Reaction score
426
Homework Statement
prove that,

##(n+1)!≥ 2^n. n## when ## n≥3##
Relevant Equations
mathematics induction
1599832781653.png

this is a solution posted by my colleague, i have a problem in understanding how he got to conclude on equation (ii)
1599832871622.png

is this not supposed to be ##(k+2)!≥ 2^{k+1} (k+1)##
##(k+2)(k+1)!≥ 2^{k+1} (k+1)## ?...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Assume that ##(k+1)! \geq 2^k k##. Then notice that ##(k+2)! = (k+2)(k+1)!##, and since ##(k+1)! \geq 2^k k## by assumption, you have ##(k+2)! = (k+2)(k+1)! \geq (k+2)2^k k##.

You're trying to show that ##(k+2)!## is greater than ##2^{k+1}(k+1)## given that it holds for the case below, so you can't assume what's meant to be proven!
 
chwala said:
Homework Statement:: prove that,

##(n+1)!≥ 2^n. n## when ## n≥3##
Relevant Equations:: mathematics induction

View attachment 269193
this is a solution posted by my colleague, i have a problem in understanding how he got to conclude on equation (ii)
View attachment 269194
is this not supposed to be ##(k+2)!≥ 2^{k+1} (k+1)##
##(k+2)(k+1)!≥ 2^{k+1} (k+1)## ?...
The inductive assumption is that ##(k+1)!≥ 2^{k} (k)##, hence:
$$(k+2)! = (k+2)(k+1)! \ge (k+2)2^k (k)$$
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: chwala
aaaaaaah i have seen it...
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: etotheipi
There must be a neater way to do this. That proof you attached is quite laboured.
 
PeroK said:
There must be a neater way to do this. That proof you attached is quite laboured.

you mind showing a neater way now that i am conversant with how the solution was found...
 
You just need to state that ##k(k+2) > 2(k+1)## for all ##k \geq 3##. Then it follows that$$(k+2)! \geq k(k+2)2^k > 2(k+1) 2^k = (k+1)2^{k+1}$$
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: chwala and PeroK
For the inductive step, all that is required is:
$$(k+2)! = (k+2)(k+1)! \ge (k+2)2^k(k) > (k+1)2^{k+1} \ \ \ (\text{as} \ k + 2 > k+1 \ \text{and} \ k > 2)$$
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: chwala and etotheipi

Similar threads

  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K