Proving Inequality: 1/(n+1) <= ln(1+1/n) <= 1/n

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the inequality 1/(n+1) ≤ ln(1 + 1/n) ≤ 1/n. Key insights include recognizing that 1/(n+1) ≤ 1/n is trivial, and that applying logarithmic properties can simplify the proof. The "squeeze principle" is suggested as a method to approach the problem, along with sketching the curve y = 1/(1 + x) and using definite integration to evaluate the area under the curve. The participants also reference the relationship between the logarithm and the variable x defined as (1 + 1/n).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of logarithmic properties and definitions
  • Familiarity with the squeeze theorem in calculus
  • Basic knowledge of definite integration
  • Ability to sketch and analyze curves
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  • Study the "squeeze theorem" in detail to apply it effectively in proofs
  • Learn about definite integration techniques and their applications
  • Explore properties of logarithmic functions, particularly in inequalities
  • Investigate the relationship between exponential functions and limits, particularly in the context of e
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Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in calculus, particularly those studying inequalities and logarithmic functions.

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how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..
 
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I'm not quite sure if this is correct, but some things I noticed might be of help:

1. Well, one part of the inequality is trivial. It is quite clear that 1/(n+1) <= 1/n.
2. If you multiply all sides by n (and apply the logarithmic property to the middle term), you will find the inequality easier, most likely.
3. Try applying the "squeeze principle."

Hope that helps! :)
 
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what's the squeeze principle, is that the pinching theorem?
also the reason i asked this question was because like u mentioned, it's kind of obvious but i was wondering what else it might involve besides just knowing that 1/(n+1) <= 1/n.
 
matrix_204 said:
how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..

Try this :

Sketch the curve y = \frac{1}{1 + x} for the domain of x \geq 0

Now demarcate the area under the curve bounded by the vertical lines x = 0 and x = \frac{1}{n}

Find the ordinates (y-values) at those x-values. Come up with two rectangles that form upper and lower bounds for the area and work out their areas in terms of n.

Now evaluate the same area exactly using definite integration. What can you now see ?
 
matrix_204 said:
how do i show that 1/(n+1)<=ln(1+1/n)<=1/n? i need sum help, i have the definitions for log n e except i need to kno how to apply them, at first it seemed simple to just do it but i m havin sum trouble..
You've already solved this problem! Let x=(1 + 1/n) and go here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=62897

:(1): \ \ \ \ \frac {x - 1} {x} \ \leq \ ln(x) \ \leq \ (x - 1)

:(2): \ \ \ \ x = 1 + \frac {1} {n}

:(3): \ \ \ \ \frac {1} {n + 1} \ \leq \ ln(1 + \frac {1} {n}) \ \leq \ \frac {1} {n}




~~
 
oooh i didn't even notice that, ok so this one i have done it, now there is another similar type of problem, except this one involves e, it goes like this;
(1+1/n)^n<= e <=(1+1/n)^n+1
do i solve this one by finding the logs of all these functions, since its a power of n and so forth..(n+1)
 

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