MHB Inequality with positive real numbers a and b

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The discussion centers on proving the inequality \( a^a b^b + a^b b^a \leq 1 \) for positive real numbers \( a \) and \( b \) where \( a + b = 1 \). Participants explore various mathematical approaches, including the application of the AM-GM inequality and properties of convex functions. The proof involves demonstrating that the function \( f(x) = x^x \) is concave, leading to the conclusion that the maximum value of the expression occurs at specific points. The inequality holds true under the given conditions, confirming the relationship between \( a \) and \( b \). Overall, the discussion effectively establishes the validity of the inequality through rigorous mathematical reasoning.
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Let $a$ and $b$ be positive real numbers such that $a+b=1$. Prove that $a^ab^b+a^bb^a\le 1$.
 
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We have
$1= a+ b = a^{a+b} + b^{a+b}$
So $1- (a^ab^b + a^b b^a)$
$= a^{a+b} + b^{a+b} - (a^ab^b + a^b b^a)$
$= a^a(a^b-b^b) + b^a(b^b-a^b) = (a^a - b^a)(a^b - b^b)$
For a > b both the terms are non -ve so we have and if b > a then both terms are -ve and hence above is positive

$1- (a^ab^b + a^b b^a) >=0$ and hence the result
 
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