Prove Inequality: Integral of Square Root vs. Trigonometric Function

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In summary, the conversation discusses the inequality that the integral of a square root function is greater than the integral of a trigonometric function over the same interval. This inequality is important for understanding and comparing different types of functions and has practical applications in fields such as physics and engineering. It can be proven using techniques from calculus, but there may be exceptions depending on the functions and interval being considered. This inequality can be applied in real-world situations to analyze and compare functions in various fields, such as determining resource distribution or modeling physical systems.
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anemone
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Show that for every $0<\theta \le \pi$, one has $\displaystyle \int_0^\theta \sqrt{1+\cos^2 t} \,dt>\sqrt{\theta^2+\sin^2 \theta}$.

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Congratulations to lfdahl for his correct solution (Cool) , which you can find below:
With the simple parameterization: $x(t) = t$, $y(t) = \sin t$ -

the arc length on the sine curve from Origo to the point $(\theta, \sin \theta)$, where $0 < \theta \leq \pi$ can be expressed exactly as the integral given in the problem: \[\int_{0}^{\theta }\sqrt{1+\cos^2t}\, dt\]

Now consider the triangle with the corners $(0,0)$, $(\theta,0)$ and $(\theta, \sin \theta)$. The hypotenuse of the triangle is a chord of length $\sqrt{\theta^2 + \sin^2\theta}$ on the graph of the sine function. Since sine is concave on the interval given, we know that every chord is shorter, than the arc length of sine. Thus, we can conclude, that

\[\int_{0}^{\theta }\sqrt{1+\cos^2t}\, dt > \sqrt{\theta ^2+\sin^2\theta }\]
 

FAQ: Prove Inequality: Integral of Square Root vs. Trigonometric Function

What is the inequality between the integral of a square root and a trigonometric function?

The inequality states that the integral of a square root is always greater than or equal to the integral of a trigonometric function.

How can this inequality be proven?

This inequality can be proven using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, which states that the integral of a function can be calculated by finding its antiderivative and evaluating it at the upper and lower limits of integration.

Can you provide an example to illustrate this inequality?

Sure, let's consider the integral of the square root of x from 0 to 1 and the integral of sine x from 0 to 1. The integral of the square root of x is equal to 2/3, while the integral of sine x is equal to 0. Therefore, the inequality holds true as 2/3 is greater than 0.

What are the implications of this inequality in mathematics?

This inequality is important in mathematics as it helps us compare the values of integrals of different types of functions. It also allows us to make approximations and estimations in various mathematical problems.

Are there any exceptions to this inequality?

Yes, there are some exceptions to this inequality. For example, if the trigonometric function has a negative value under the integral, the inequality may not hold true. It is important to carefully consider the limits of integration and the behavior of the functions before applying this inequality.

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