Properties of Absolute Value with Two Abs Values

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of absolute values, specifically examining the relationships between the expressions ##\frac{|a|}{|b|}## and ##|\frac{a}{b}|##, as well as the implications of the inequality ##|a| < |b|## in relation to ##a^2 < b^2##. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and conceptual clarification.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether ##\frac{|a|}{|b|} = |\frac{a}{b}|## is true.
  • There is a discussion about the equivalence of the inequalities ##|a| < |b|## and ##a^2 < b^2##, with some participants suggesting that they are equivalent under certain conditions.
  • One participant suggests defining ##|x| = \sqrt{x^2}## to explore the relationship between the absolute values and their ratios.
  • Another participant expresses confusion about the reasoning behind the properties of absolute values and requests clarification.
  • Further elaboration is provided on the manipulation of the expression ##\frac{|a|}{|b|}## using square roots, leading to a series of transformations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the equivalence of the inequalities or the truth of the absolute value ratio. Multiple competing views remain regarding the implications of the properties discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the values of a and b are not explicitly stated, which may affect the validity of the claims made. The discussion also does not resolve the mathematical steps involved in the transformations presented.

askor
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Is it true that ##\frac{|a|}{|b|} = |\frac{a}{b}|## and ##|a| < |b| = a^2 < b^2##?
 
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askor said:
##|a| < |b| = a^2 < b^2##?

Do you mean ##|a| < |b| \iff a^2 < b^2##?
 
Your textbook should cover the first one at least.

The second one depends on what a,b can be (assuming you mean what @etotheipi wrote)
 
etotheipi said:
Do you mean ##|a| < |b| \iff a^2 < b^2##?

Yes.
 
Define ##|x| = \sqrt{x^2}##. Can you use certain properties of the square root to show that ##\frac{|a|}{|b|} = |\frac{a}{b}|##?
 
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romsofia said:
Define ##|x| = \sqrt{x^2}##. Can you use certain properties of the square root to show that ##\frac{|a|}{|b|} = |\frac{a}{b}|##?

I don't understand. Please tell me the point.
 
askor said:
I don't understand. Please tell me the point.
$$\frac{|a|}{|b|} = \frac{\sqrt{a^2}}{\sqrt{b^2}} = \sqrt{\frac{a^2}{b^2}} = \sqrt{\left(\frac{a}{b}\right)^2} = \dots$$
 

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