Is the Triangle Inequality Valid for Natural Numbers and Complex Numbers?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of the triangle inequality for natural numbers and complex numbers, specifically examining the expression $|(n+z)^2|$ and its relationship to $(n - |z|)^2$. Participants explore various approaches to demonstrate the inequality and clarify the nature of the variables involved.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempts to show that $|(n+z)^2| \leq (n - |z|)^2$, starting from the expression $|(n+z)^2| = |n^2 + 2nz + z^2|$ and applying the triangle inequality.
  • Another participant questions the validity of the inequality by providing a counterexample with specific values for $n$ and $z$, indicating that $|(2+i)^2| = 5$ while $(2)^2 - |i|^2 = 3$ does not hold.
  • A later reply references a series involving $\sum_{n = N+1}^{\infty} \frac{1}{(z+n)^2}$ and proposes to show that $\left|\frac{1}{(z+n)^2}\right| \leq \frac{1}{(n - |z|)^2}$, suggesting a connection to the original inequality.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether both $n$ and $z$ are complex or if only $z$ is complex, seeking clarification.
  • Another participant clarifies that both $z$ and $n$ are natural numbers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the inequality, with multiple competing views and uncertainties regarding the nature of the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions about the definitions of the variables $n$ and $z$, as well as the conditions under which the inequalities are being evaluated.

Dustinsfl
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I am trying to show $|(n+z)^2|\leq (n -|z|)^2$ where is complex

$|(n+z)^2| = |n^2 + 2nz + z^2| \leq n^2 + 2n|z| + |z|^2$ But I can't figure out the connection for the final piece.
 
Last edited:
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dwsmith said:
I am trying to show $|(n+z)^2|\leq n^2 -|z|^2$ where is complex
I don't think that you really mean that.
$|(2+i)^2|=|3+4i|=5$
$(2)^2-|i|^2=3$
 
Plato said:
I don't think that you really mean that.
$|(2+i)^2|=|3+4i|=5$
$(2)^2-|i|^2=3$

This may help (below) then but I figure the above was just a straight application.
$$
\sum_{n = N+1}^{ \infty}\frac{1}{(z+n)^2}
$$
$R>0$ and $N>2R$. For the inequality, we are assuming $|z|<R$. Additionally, $n>N$.

So I want to show
$$
\left|\frac{1}{(z+n)^2}\right|\leq\frac{1}{(n-|z|^)2}
$$
So if that is true, then $|(z+n)^2|\leq (n -|z|)^2$.

---------- Post added at 04:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:25 PM ----------

$|(n + z)^2|\leq n^2 + 2n|z| + |z|^2\leq n^2 - 2n|z| + |z|^2\leq (n - |z|)^2$

Is this correct?
 
Last edited:
dwsmith said:
I am trying to show $|(n+z)^2|\leq (n -|z|)^2$ where is complex

$|(n+z)^2| = |n^2 + 2nz + z^2| \leq n^2 + 2n|z| + |z|^2$ But I can't figure out the connection for the final piece.

Are n and z both complex? Or is only z complex?
 
Prove It said:
Are n and z both complex? Or is only z complex?

z and n is a natural
 

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