Prove that d(x,y)/(1+ d(x,y)) is another metric

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving that a modified metric, defined as \(\tilde{d}(x,y)=\frac{d(x,y)}{1+d(x,y)}\), is indeed a metric. The original metric \(d(x,y)\) is given to be in \(\mathbb{R}^n\), and the focus is on demonstrating that \(\tilde{d}\) satisfies the triangle inequality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various approaches to proving the triangle inequality for \(\tilde{d}\), including attempts to manipulate the inequality by clearing denominators and leveraging properties of the original metric \(d\). Some suggest proving a related lemma about the behavior of the function \(\frac{x}{1+x}\).

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering different strategies and insights. There is acknowledgment of the challenges posed by the denominators in the inequality, and some guidance has been provided regarding algebraic manipulation and the properties of the function involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the bounded nature of the modified metric and the implications of the triangle inequality for the original metric \(d\). There is also mention of previous work done on similar problems, indicating a shared context among participants.

ELESSAR TELKONT
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I have the next problem:

Let [itex]d(x,y)[/itex] be a metric in [itex]\mathbb{R}^n[/itex]. If we define [itex]\tilde{d}(x,y)=\frac{d(x,y)}{1+d(x,y)}[/itex], proof that [itex]\tilde{d}(x,y)[/itex] is another metric.

I have proven that is not degenerated (i.e. [itex]\tilde{d}(x,y)=0 \longleftrightarrow x=y[/itex]) and symmetric. But I can't proof the triangle's inequality, I only get that is equivalent to proof that

[itex]\frac{d(x,y)}{1+d(x,y)}\leq \frac{d(x,z)}{1+d(x,z)}+\frac{d(y,z)}{1+d(y,z)}[/itex]

I need some help, please, because if the denominators wouldn't exist it will be easy. That's I need to know if the denominators in the right member of inequality are lesser than the one on the other member. I hope can you help me.
 
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Did you try to multiply through to clear all of the denominators? [multiply the inequality by the product of all of the denominators]
It seems that there will be numerous terms that can be grouped.
Make use of the fact that d already satisfies the inequality.
 
This is called the bounded metric (associated with d) because it is bounded by 1.

I did this problem earlier this summer, and I found it helpful to prove this lemma first:

"If [itex]0\leq a \leq b[/itex], then [tex]\frac{a}{1+a}\leq \frac{b}{1+b}[/tex]"

Then knowing that d already satisfies the triangle inequality, the answer is very near.
 
Quasar is essentially is saying that [itex]f(x)=\frac{x}{1+x}[/itex] is increasing on [itex]\mathbf{R}^+[/itex]. You can prove this algebraically, which I believe quasar is hinting at, but it "easier" to do it with calculus.
 

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