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Prove AM–GM for nonnegative a,b.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

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高一必修 第一册(A版).pdf · 2.2 · PDF 51 / printed page 44

Revisit first: Properties of equalities and inequalities

TOPIC 01

Basic inequality: AM–GM

Build understanding of basic inequality: am–gm through definitions, contrasting cases and justified applications.

What you will be able to explain

  • Apply basic inequality: am–gm with explicit conditions.
  • Connect representations and justify the steps, including boundary cases.
  • Explain a solution and apply the idea to a changed situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Standard#Your turn

Prove AM–GM for nonnegative a,b.

a+b≥2aba+b\ge2\sqrt{ab}
  • Use the domain, units and sampling assumptions stated in the question.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Check nonnegativity, apply AM–GM and verify attainable equality.
Hint 2
Start from a square that cannot be negative.
Worked solution
  1. Check nonnegativity, apply AM–GM and verify attainable equality.

  2. Calculate or simplify this relation.

    (a−b)2=a+b−2ab≥0(\sqrt a-\sqrt b)^2=a+b-2\sqrt{ab}\ge0
  3. Real square roots require the nonnegative assumptions.

Equality holds exactly when a=b.

Checks and common pitfalls: Real square roots require the nonnegative assumptions.

Reasoning checklist · self / teacher assessment
  • State the relevant definition, condition or model.
  • Show a valid calculation, proof or counterexample.
  • Interpret the conclusion with its restrictions.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • What must be true before using the main rule for basic inequality: am–gm?
  • Which representation makes this task easier, and why?
  • Change one assumption. Does the conclusion survive?

Board plan

  • Apply basic inequality: am–gm with explicit conditions.
  • AM–GM: For nonnegative terms, arithmetic mean is at least geometric mean.
    (a+b)/2≥ab(a+b)/2\ge\sqrt{ab}
  • Equality: The terms must be equal and allowed by the domain.
  • Close with: conditions → representation → reasoning → check.

Anticipated thinking

  • Expected reasoning: For nonnegative terms, arithmetic mean is at least geometric mean.
  • Expected reasoning: The terms must be equal and allowed by the domain.
  • Expected correction: A lower bound may be unattainable.

Assessment checklist

  • 1: identify the givens and required quantity.
  • 1: choose a valid definition, representation or method.
  • 1: present connected, correct reasoning.
  • 1: check conditions and explain the result.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗