Prove (xu + yv )^2 <= (x^2 + y^2)(u^2 + v^2)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving the inequality (xu + yv )^2 <= (x^2 + y^2)(u^2 + v^2) for real numbers x, y, u, and v, and determining the conditions for equality in this inequality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to manipulate the inequality into a form that can be analyzed, expressing it as a non-negative quantity. They express uncertainty about the proof process and the implications for part b.
  • Some participants suggest that equality holds under specific conditions related to the ratios of the variables involved.
  • Questions arise regarding the interpretation of the conditions under which equality is achieved.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the proof of part a and explore the implications for part b. Some participants provide insights into when equality holds, but there is no explicit consensus on the overall approach or resolution of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes their inexperience with proofs and expresses concern about the difficulty of the problem set, indicating a potential lack of foundational knowledge in the topic.

NastyAccident
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Homework Statement


(!) Let x, y, u, v be real numbers
a.) Prove (xu + yv )^2 <= (x^2 + y^2)(u^2 + v^2)
b.) Determine precisely when equality holds in part (a).

Homework Equations


Looks like the cauchy-stewarts inequality:
(a*b)^2 <= a*b

The Attempt at a Solution


0 <= (x^2+y^2)(u^2+v^2) - (xu +yv )^2
0 <= x^2u^2 + x^2v^2 + y^2u^2 + y^2v^2 - (x^2u^2 + 2xuyv + y^2v^2)
0 <= x^2v^2 + y^2u^2 - 2xuyv
0 <= (xv - yu)^2

Any square is always greater than 0.

However, I'm relatively new at trying to do proofs and the book's (Mathematical Thinking Problem Solving and Proofs) examples do not use an already established inequality to prove it. They typically start from scratch. Also, this problem set was pretty much the instructor kicking us from the shallow end of a pool into the deep deep end without any floaties.

In any case, I'm not sure about how to even approach part B if part a holds.

Unless it is, for all real numbers since the square allows for the terms inside to be negative.



NastyAccident
One confused Mathematics Major.
 
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You've aced part a) part b is even simplier it is equal when xv=yu, or that ratios:
[tex] \frac{x}{y}=\frac{u}{v}[/tex]
 
So,

You pretty much went one step further and...
0 <= (xv - yu)^2
0 <= xv - yu
yu <= xv

Correct?

So, in the future just take it one step further and figure out what the zeros are to figure out when the equality 'holds.'

Thanks for the help by the way!



NastyAccident
 
Yes.
 

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