Proving e^x > sigma(x^i/i!) for every x>0 | Induction Method

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that \( e^x > \sum_{i=0}^{n} \frac{x^i}{i!} \) for every \( x > 0 \) using mathematical induction. The proof begins with the base case for \( n=1 \) and establishes that \( e^x > x + 1 \). The inductive step assumes the inequality holds for \( n=k \) and proves it for \( n=k+1 \) by comparing derivatives. The conclusion confirms the inequality is valid for all \( n \). Additionally, the discussion touches on the limit as \( n \) approaches infinity, indicating that \( \sum_{k=0}^{\infty} \frac{x^k}{k!} \leq e^x \) holds true.

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  • Understanding of mathematical induction
  • Familiarity with the exponential function \( e^x \)
  • Knowledge of Taylor series expansions
  • Basic calculus concepts, including derivatives
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  • Study the properties of the exponential function \( e^x \)
  • Learn about Taylor series and their convergence
  • Explore advanced topics in mathematical induction
  • Investigate the relationship between series and limits in calculus
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Students of mathematics, particularly those studying calculus and analysis, as well as educators seeking to understand the proof of inequalities involving exponential functions.

madah12
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Homework Statement


prove that e^x > sigma from i= o to n (x^i/i!) for every x>0



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The Attempt at a Solution


I will do it by induction
for n=1
e^x > x+1
but e^0=1 and 0+1=1
f(x)=e^x , g(x)=x+1
f(0)=g(0)
f'(x)=e^x , g'(x)=1
e^x>1 for every x >0
so f(x)>g(x)
-------------------------------
now assuming it's true for n =k
e^x> sigma from i= o to k (x^i/i!) for every x>0 (a)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
we prove it is true for k+1
h(x)=sigma from i= o to k+1 (x^i/i!) for every x>0
f(0)=h(0)=1
f'(x)=e^x , h'(x) = sigma from i= o to k (x^i/i!)
and by our assumption e^x >sigma from i= o to k (x^i/i!)
therefore f'(x)>h'(x) for every x >0
f(x)>h(x)
<=>e^x >sigma from i= o to k+1 (x^i/i!) for
and since it is proven for n=k+1
then by induction
e^x >sigma from i= o to n (x^i/i!)

------------------------------------------
is this right? and how can I prove it is true if n --> infinity?
 
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Your argument looks ok to me. So you have

[tex]\sum_{k=0}^n\frac {x^k}{k!} < e^x[/tex]

for all n > 0, x>0. If you wish to take the limit as n→ ∞, you must admit the possibility of equality:

[tex]\sum_{k=0}^\infty\frac {x^k}{k!} \le e^x[/tex]

You know the partial sums converge since they are increasing and bounded above by ex. Less than or equal is all this argument shows, although when you study Taylor series you will learn that equality holds in the limit.
 

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