Show the norm ||x|| is less or equal to A|x| for some constant A

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving the inequality \|x\| \leq A|x| for all x in \mathbb{R}, where A is a non-negative constant. Participants reference the properties of norms, specifically the conditions that define a norm function: positivity, triangle inequality, and homogeneity. A hint was provided suggesting the use of A = |f(1)|, which led to a successful proof using unit vectors and the properties of norms. The solution emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental properties of norms in vector spaces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of norm functions in vector spaces
  • Familiarity with properties of norms: positivity, triangle inequality, and homogeneity
  • Basic knowledge of unit vectors
  • Concept of absolute value in real numbers
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of norms in depth, focusing on various types of norms (e.g., Euclidean, Manhattan)
  • Explore the concept of unit vectors and their applications in proofs
  • Learn about the implications of the triangle inequality in vector spaces
  • Investigate the relationship between norms and absolute values in mathematical analysis
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, particularly those studying linear algebra or functional analysis, as well as educators looking to enhance their understanding of norm properties and inequalities.

Ryker
Messages
1,080
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


Show that \|x\| \leq A|x| \forall x \in \mathbb{R}, where A \geq 0.

Homework Equations


We know the norm is a function f: {\mathbb{R}}^{d} \to \mathbb{R}, such that:
a) f(x) = 0 \iff x = 0,
b) f(x+y) \leq f(x) + f(y), and
c) f(cx) = |c|f(x) \forall c \in \mathbb{R}

The Attempt at a Solution


Ugh, I'm completely stumped here, and don't know where to begin. I know that for the Euclidean norm this is trivial, but I don't know how to even begin showing this in general. In particular, I don't see where I could grasp the absolute value (or the dot product), or how to start comparing it to the norm.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I'll just post a hint : try A=|f(1)|.
 
Hey, thanks for the hint, although I actually figured it out yesterday a couple of hours after posting :smile: I did it via the unit vectors and then expanding upon the properties b) and c). I assume this is what you were going for with the hint, as well, right?
 
Ryker said:
I did it via the unit vectors and then expanding upon the properties b) and c). I assume this is what you were going for with the hint, as well, right?

Yes, I thought on similar lines.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
26
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 43 ·
2
Replies
43
Views
5K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
4K