Prove 2(a³+b³+c³) > a²b + a²c + b²c + b²a + c²a + c²b

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    Inequality Proof
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving the inequality \(2(a^3 + b^3 + c^3) > a^2b + a^2c + b^2c + b^2a + c^2a + c^2b\) for distinct positive numbers \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\). This falls under the subject area of inequalities in algebra.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various attempts to manipulate the inequality, including expanding expressions and applying known inequalities like AM-GM. Some express confusion about the placement of the constant factor in the inequality.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing different strategies and insights. Some have suggested specific inequalities and approaches, while others are still grappling with the problem and seeking clarification on their attempts.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the distinctness of the variables and their positivity, which may influence the application of certain inequalities. The discussion also touches on the homogeneity of the inequality, suggesting potential simplifications.

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Homework Statement


If a, b and c are distinct positive numbers, show that
[itex] 2 (a^3 + b^3 + c^3) > a^2b + a^2c + b^2c + b^2a + c^2a + c^2b[/itex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried to expand from [tex](a+b+c)^3 > 0[/tex], also tried [tex](a+b)^3 + (b+c)^3 + (c+a)^3 > 0[/tex], and then [tex]\frac{a+b+c}{3} > \sqrt[3]{abc}[/tex]. But with no avail. I guess I'm heading in the wrong direction?
 
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Try playing with:
[tex] a(a-b)^{2}+b(b-c)^{2}+c(c-a)^{2}>0\quad a(a-c)^{2}+b(b-a)^{2}+c(c-b)^{2}>0[/tex]
along with other things like this to get the answer.
 
Hmm, thanks for your tip off, but I still can't seem to make it...

The 2 is always appearing on the right side of the inequality, but as of the question it's on the right side, if I expand [tex](a-b)^2[/tex] the 2 sticks together with ab instead of [tex]a^3[/tex]...
 
Have you heard of the arithmetic mean and geometric mean and their relationship? Try using the AM-GM inequality (it is extremely useful in situations like this, look it up!). Rearrange the left hand side as such: [tex]\frac{a^3+a^3+b^3}{3} +...[/tex] Apply the AM-GM inequality at each term and note exactly when you have equality. An alternative way is to use the rearrangement inequality. Assuming without loss of generality a >= b >= c, the inequality follows immediately, and strict inequality follows from a>c.

Symmetric inequalities as these can very often be solved using the inequalities QM-AM-GM-HM (quadratic, arithmetic, geometric and harmonic means), Rearrangement, Chebychev, Cauchy-Schwarz and Jensens; or a combination of these. Note also that this particular inequality is homogenous, so you can assume e.g. a+b+c=1, or a^3+b^3+c^3=1. That might also be useful in some situations.
 
Last edited:
Jarle said:
Have you heard of the arithmetic mean and geometric mean and their relationship? Try using the AM-GM inequality (it is extremely useful in situations like this, look it up!). Rearrange the left hand side as such: [tex]\frac{a^3+a^3+b^3}{3} +...[/tex] Apply the AM-GM inequality at each term and note exactly when you have equality.

I think I got it, by using [tex]\frac{a+b}{2}>\sqrt{ab}[/tex], etc and by multiplying a and b respectively then adding up all together made it. Thanks for all the tips!
 

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