Triangle Inequality Proof: Shortest Side in Relation to Sides a, b, and c

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    2016
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SUMMARY

The triangle inequality proof establishes that if the sides \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) of a triangle satisfy the condition \(a^2 + b^2 > 5c^2\), then \(c\) must be the shortest side. This conclusion is derived from the properties of triangle inequalities and the relationships between the sides. The proof leverages geometric principles and algebraic manipulation to validate the assertion definitively.

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Here is this week's POTW:

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The sides $a,\,b$ and $c$ of a triangle satisfy $a^2+ b^2> 5c^2$. Prove that $c$ is the shortest side of this triangle.

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Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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Congratulations to kaliprasad for his correct solution!:)

Here's the model solution provided by my best friend, Michelle:

It is clear that $c$ cannot be the longest side. So if $c$ is not the shortest, WLOG, we can assume that $a > c > b$.
Hence $(b+c)^2\le 2b^2+ 2c^2< 4c^2< 4c^2 + (c^2 - b^2) < a^2$.

Therefore we get $b+c < a$ which is a contradiction for $a,\,b$, and $c$ are sides of a triangle.

We can conclude by now that $c$ is the shortest side of that triangle.
 

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