Use a direct proof to show that if $x\gt 1$ then $x^5 +x+1\gt 2$.

Use a direct proof to show that if $x\gt 1$ then $x^5 +x+1\gt 2$.

It's obvious that if $x\gt 1$ then $x+1\gt 2$ , also $x^5\gt0 \;as \;x\gt1\gt0$, thus $x^5+x+1\gt 2$.

Is it fine ?

I can't understand what do they mean by direct proof?

• Yes, that proof is fine. – Théophile Feb 16 '16 at 21:27
• Is this a direct proof ? – User Feb 16 '16 at 21:28
• Directly we get $x^5+x+1>1^5+1+1=3$, which is better. – Dietrich Burde Feb 16 '16 at 21:29
• I suppose by "direct" proof a proof which isn't a proof by contradiction is meant. Your proof clearly isn't by contradiction, so should be fine. – Wojowu Feb 16 '16 at 21:29
• Yes, it is direct in the sense that you are showing that it is true without resorting to any roundabout arguments, or contradiction, or induction, or various theorems, etc. – Théophile Feb 16 '16 at 21:29

Since the derivative $f'(x)=5x^4+1$ is always positive, the function $f(x)=x^5+x+1$ is increasing over $\mathbb{R}$ and $x>1$ implies $f(x)>f(1)=3$.
• The value at $1$ is $3$, but otherwise, yes. – Brian Tung Aug 11 '16 at 1:53