# Math Help - Generalized Mean Value Theorem

1. ## Generalized Mean Value Theorem

Let a<b be elements of R, and let f,g:[a,b]-->R be continuous on [a,b] and differentiable on ]a,b[. Assume that f(a) is less than or equal to g(a) and that f'(x)<g'(x) for x element of ]a,b[. Show that f(x)<g(x) for x element of ]a,b].

Can this be done using Generalized Mean Value Theorem? And either way, could somebody give me some pointers?

Thanks a bunch!

2. Originally Posted by TexasGirl
Let a<b be elements of R, and let f,g:[a,b]-->R be continuous on [a,b] and differentiable on ]a,b[. Assume that f(a) is less than or equal to g(a) and that f'(x)<g'(x) for x element of ]a,b[. Show that f(x)<g(x) for x element of ]a,b].

Can this be done using Generalized Mean Value Theorem? And either way, could somebody give me some pointers?

Thanks a bunch!
Consider $h:[a,b] \rightarrow \manthbb{R}$ such that

$\forall x \in [a,b]\ h(x)=f(x)-g(x)$.

Then $h$ is strictly decreasing in $[a,b]$, and $h(a)\le 0$.

And the rest should be trivial.

RonL

3. ## thanks

thanks a bunch =)