MHB Triangle Challenge: Prove $p^4+q^4+r^4-2p^2q^2-2q^2r^2-2r^2p^2<0$

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The discussion centers on proving the inequality $p^4+q^4+r^4-2p^2q^2-2q^2r^2-2r^2p^2<0$ for the sides of a triangle, denoted as $p$, $q$, and $r$. Participants highlight the need for a mathematical approach to demonstrate that the expression is negative under the triangle inequality conditions. The conversation includes admiration for a member's factoring skills, indicating a collaborative atmosphere focused on problem-solving. The goal remains clear: to establish the validity of the inequality specifically for triangle side lengths. Overall, the thread emphasizes mathematical proof and community engagement in tackling the challenge.
anemone
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Prove that $p^4+q^4+r^4-2p^2q^2-2q^2r^2-2r^2p^2<0$ for $p,\,q,\,r$ are the sides of a triangle.
 
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anemone said:
Prove that $p^4+q^4+r^4-2p^2q^2-2q^2r^2-2r^2p^2<0$ for $p,\,q,\,r$ are the sides of a triangle.

By the triangle inequality, $|p - q| < r < p + q$. Thus $(p - q)^2 < r^2 < (p + q)^2$; Using this, we find

$\displaystyle p^4 + q^4 + r^4 - 2p^2q^2 - 2q^2r^2 - 2r^2p^2$

$\displaystyle = (p^2 + q^2 - r^2)^2 - 4p^2q^2$

$\displaystyle = (p^2 + q^2 - r^2 - 2pq)(p^2 + q^2 - r^2 + 2pq)$

$\displaystyle = [(p - q)^2 - r^2][(p + q)^2 - r^2]$

$\displaystyle < 0$.
 
Last edited:
Euge said:
By the triangle inequality, $|p - q| < r < p + q$. Thus $(p - q)^2 < r^2 < (p + q)^2$; Using this, we find

$\displaystyle p^4 + q^4 + r^4 - 2p^2q^2 - 2q^2r^2 - 2r^2p^2$

$\displaystyle = (p^2 + q^2 - r^2)^2 - 4p^2q^2$

$\displaystyle = (p^2 + q^2 - r^2 - 2pq)(p^2 + q^2 - r^2 + 2pq)$

$\displaystyle = [(p - q)^2 - r^2][(p + q)^2 - r^2]$

$\displaystyle < 0$.

Hey Euge, you're so tremendously great at factoring to simplify any given math expressions and I admire all those heuristic skills that you posses! So I tip my hat to you!:cool:
 
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