MHB Triangle Inequality: $a^4-1, a^4+a^3+2a^2+a+1, 2a^3+a^2+2a+1$

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For all values of \( a > 1 \), the sides \( a^4 - 1 \), \( a^4 + a^3 + 2a^2 + a + 1 \), and \( 2a^3 + a^2 + 2a + 1 \) can form a triangle, satisfying the triangle inequality. The discussion highlights the elegance of the solution provided by Kaliprasad and appreciates the challenge posed by Anemone. Participants express enjoyment in solving and discussing the problem, emphasizing the positive community interaction. The problem serves as a good example of applying mathematical principles to verify triangle formation. Overall, the thread showcases a collaborative effort in exploring mathematical concepts.
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Show that for all $a>1$, there is a triangle with sides $a^4-1$, $a^4+a^3+2a^2+a+1$, and $2a^3+a^2+2a+1$.
 
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anemone said:
Show that for all $a>1$, there is a triangle with sides $a^4-1$, $a^4+a^3+2a^2+a+1$, and $2a^3+a^2+2a+1$.

Let the Lengths of sides of triangle be
$x = a^4 – 1$
$y = a^4 + a^3 + 2a^2 + a +1$
$z= 2a^3 + a^2 + 2a + 1$

clearly x < y
now we need to see if y < z or y = z or y > z
$y – z = a^4 – a^3 + a^2 – a = a^3(a-1) +a (a-1) >0$
so y – z >0
so y is the longer side,
now if we prove that x + z > y then we are through
$x + z – y = a^3 – a^2 + a – 1 = (a^2+1)(a-1) > 0$

hence proved
 
Last edited:
Great problem, Anemone! :D

And a very elegant solution, Kaliprasad! :D
 
DreamWeaver said:
Great problem, Anemone! :D

It feels quite nice to receive such a compliment from time to time at MHB for my posting of the challenge problem(s)!:p(Sun)
 
anemone said:
Show that for all $a>1$, there is a triangle with sides $a^4-1$, let :$a^4+a^3+2a^2+a+1$, and $2a^3+a^2+2a+1$.
let:
$x=a^4-1=(a^2+1)(a^2-1)$
$y=a^4+a^3+2a^2+a+1=(a^2+a+1)(a^2+1)$
and
$z=2a^3+a^2+2a+1=(a^2+1)(2a+1)$
if $x,y,z $ can form a triangle ,then :
$xx=a^2-1$
$yy=a^2+a+1$
$zz=2a+1$
can also form a new but smaller triangle (by shrinking $a^2+1$ fold)
again $yy$ is the longest
now we must prove $xx+zz>yy$ if $a>1$
but $xx+zz-yy=a^2-1+2a+1-a^2-a-1=a-1>0(\,\, if \,\, a>1)$
and the proof is done
 
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