Integrals: 1/17 ≤ f(x) ≤ 19/68

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of integrals, specifically focusing on the function f(x) = 1/(1+x^4) over the interval [1, 2]. Participants are tasked with demonstrating that the integral of this function lies between the bounds 1/17 and 19/68 using the Comparison Theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the decreasing nature of the function f(x) and its implications for finding minimum values. There are attempts to apply the Comparison Theorem, with some questioning how to effectively compare f(x) to a linear function. Others explore the integration of the linear function derived from points (1, f(1)) and (2, f(2)).

Discussion Status

There is ongoing exploration of the relationship between the function and the linear approximation. Some participants have made progress in calculating areas and comparing values, while others express uncertainty about their methods and results. Clarifications about the function and its properties are being made, indicating a productive dialogue.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through potential typographical errors and are also considering the geometric interpretation of the area under curves. There is a focus on ensuring that the inequalities hold true, which adds complexity to the discussion.

nickolas2730
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Use the properties of integrals to show that
1/17smaller or equal to
GuU4F.png
greater or equal to19/68

where f(x)=1/(1+x4) and a=1, b=2
[for the second inequality nd a linear function use the Comparison Theorem]

Here is what i up to

Since f(x) is a decreasing function
thus, when x=2 , f(2) is min, where f(2) = 1/17

i am not sure if i am doing to correct tho...
and i don't know how to use comparison to prove f(x) smaller than 19/68

Sorry i don't really know how to use those symble
thank you
 
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nickolas2730 said:
Use the properties of integrals to show that
1/17smaller or equal to
GuU4F.png
greater or equal to19/68

where f(x)=1/(1+x4) and a=1, b=2
[for the second inequality nd a linear function use the Comparison Theorem]

Here is what i up to

Since f(x) is a decreasing function
thus, when x=2 , f(2) is min, where f(2) = 1/17

i am not sure if i am doing to correct tho...
and i don't know how to use comparison to prove f(x) smaller than 19/68

Sorry i don't really know how to use those symble
thank you

Ok. So far you have 1/17 ≤ 1/(1+x4) so

[tex]\int_1^2 \frac 1 {17}\, dx \leq \int_1^2 \frac {1}{1+x^4}\, dx[/tex]

so you are half done. Now think about comparing f(x) with the straight line g(x) connecting
(1,f(1)) and (2,f(2)). Can you show f(x) ≤ g(x)? And what do you get?
 
Last edited:
thanks for your reply
but my question is 1+x4

i tried (1,f(1)) and (2,f(2)) for 1/(1+x4)
and i got an equation y=-(15/34)x + 16/17
and after integrate i got 109/68

am i doing it correct?
 
nickolas2730 said:
thanks for your reply
but my question is 1+x4

Yes, that's a typo. I fixed it.

i tried (1,f(1)) and (2,f(2)) for 1/(1+x4)
and i got an equation y=-(15/34)x + 16/17
and after integrate i got 109/68

am i doing it correct?

The curves form a trapezoid, so you should be able to check the area without calculus. I get a different answer. And remember you have to show that your curve lies under the straight line so you actually have the inequality.
 
i found the area of the straight line g(x)
it is 9/17, right..?
but it is different from the question
and i don't know how to show that g(x)>f(x)
sorry ..
 
nickolas2730 said:
i found the area of the straight line g(x)
it is 9/17, right..?
but it is different from the question
and i don't know how to show that g(x)>f(x)
sorry ..

You mean the area under the straight line. And no, it isn't 9/17. You have a trapezoid of height 1 and bases f(1) = 1/2 and and f(2) = 1/17. You don't need calculus to calculate it although both geometry and calculus methods should give you the same answer.

One way to show the curve lies under its secant line on (1,2) would be to show the curve is concave up in that interval.
 
omg,i made a very stupid mistake.
thank you very much
it makes so much sense to me now

thank you
 

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