As an application (or an example) of the intermediate value theorem, we can prove the fixed point theorem (FPT) for continuous function which is given below. Let us first recall the intermediate value theorem.
Intermediate Value Theorem: If f(x) is a real-valued continuous function on the closed interval [a, b] with f(a) ≠ f(b), then [f(a), f(b)] ⊆ Image of f.
Fixed Point Theorem
Statement: Let f: [a, b] → [a, b] be a continuous function. Then f has a fixed point, that is, ∃ a point c ∈ (a, b) such that f(c) = c.
Proof:
If either f(a)=a or f(b)=b or both are true, then there is nothing to prove. So we assume that f(a) > a and f(b) < b.
Now, we define the function
φ(x) = f(x)-x for all x ∈ [a, b].
As f is continuous on [a, b], so is φ. Note that φ(a)>0 and φ(b)<0. In other words, 0 ∈ [φ(a), φ(b)]. Thus, by the above intermediate value theorem, there is a point c ∈ [a, b] such that
φ(c) = 0.
⇒ f(c)-c = 0
⇒ f(c) = c.
This completes the proof of the fixed point theorem.
Also Read:
Continuity of a Function: Definition, Solved Examples
Discontinuous Functions: Definition, Examples, Types
Intermediate Value Theorem (IVT)
This article is written by Dr. T. Mandal, Ph.D in Mathematics. On Mathstoon.com you will find Maths from very basic level to advanced level. Thanks for visiting.