Proving Inequality in Mathematics: Vacation Edition

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around proving the inequality $$\sum_{i=1}^{n}\frac{a_{i}}{a_{i+1}}\ge\sum_{i=1}^{n}\frac{1-a_{i+1}}{1-a_{i}}$$ under the conditions that $$a_i>0$$ and $$\sum_{i=1}^n a_i=1$$, with $$a_{n+1}=a_{1}$$. This mathematical challenge was introduced on Mathematics Stack Exchange and aims to engage the community in collaborative problem-solving. The problem was deemed suitable for the sub-forum despite the original poster not providing a solution, highlighting its educational value.

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Re: inequality

The actual problem statement here may be written as:

Given $$a_i>0$$, $$\sum_{i=1}^n a_i=1$$ and $$a_{n+1}=a_{1}$$

Prove:

$$\sum_{i=1}^{n}\dfrac{a_{i}}{a_{i+1}}\ge\sum_{i=1}^{n}\dfrac{1-a_{i+1}}{1-a_{i}}$$

Note: Normally, when a problem is posted in this sub-forum, the OP is expected to have a solution ready to post. However, the OP did not originally post the topic here and during a staff discussion, it was felt that this sub-forum would be best as it really does not fit into any neat category. So, consider this problem a challenge for our membership as a whole. (Cool)
 
Last edited:

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