Prove Inequality: 1/p + 1/q=1, u,v >= 0

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving an inequality related to positive real numbers p and q, where 1/p + 1/q = 1, and non-negative variables u and v. The goal is to show that uv is less than or equal to (u^p)/p + (v^q)/q.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the potential use of known inequalities, such as the AM-GM inequality, and question whether there are specific inequalities that should be applied. Some express uncertainty about how to manipulate the given equations and inequalities effectively.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their thoughts on possible approaches and expressing confusion about the steps needed to rearrange the inequalities. Some have attempted specific cases, while others are exploring the implications of the relationship between p and q.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of constraints regarding known inequalities that can be used, and participants are considering the implications of the condition 1/p + 1/q = 1 in their reasoning.

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Homework Statement


Let p and q be positive real numbers such that

1/p + 1/q=1

Prove that if [itex]u\geq 0[/itex] and [itex]v \geq 0[/itex], then

[tex]uv \leq \frac{u^p}{p}+\frac{v^q}{q}[/tex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I am really stumped. Is there like a famous inequality that I need to use here that I am forgetting?
This vaguely reminds me of the AM-GM inequality...
 
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It certainly works when u=v=1...
 
I think I got it, but it was tricky.

First, try to prove that [tex]\frac{1}{p}+\frac{1}{q}=1[/tex] can be rearranged to show that [tex]p+q=pq[/tex]

Then start to work on rearranging the second inequality, in order to remove the fractions.
 
CrazyIvan said:
I think I got it, but it was tricky.

First, try to prove that [tex]\frac{1}{p}+\frac{1}{q}=1[/tex] can be rearranged to show that [tex]p+q=pq[/tex]

Well, that comes from just multiplying the first equation by pq.



CrazyIvan said:
Then start to work on rearranging the second inequality, in order to remove the fractions.

So, I have been trying this and not getting anywhere. I tried plugging in p q = p+q. Can you be more specific?
 

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