Math Is Fun Forum

Ricky

Moderator

Registered: 2005-12-04

Posts: 3,791

Irrationality of sqrt(n)

For a math class, advanced calculus, a homework assignment was to show that the √5 is irrational.  I took it a step further.  I first tried looking a proof for it up on the web, but it I couldn't find any that didn't have serious errors which made the whole attempt invalid.  Let me know if you find any errors in this.

Hmm, doesn't seem to let me upload pdf's.  Oh well:

http://www.geocities.com/rshadarack/sqr … tional.pdf

Oh, and it's odd for two reasons: the general proof is just as short as that for √2, and it uses a completely different strategy.

Last edited by Ricky (2006-01-18 17:22:58)

---

"In the real world, this would be a problem.  But in mathematics, we can just define a place where this problem doesn't exist.  So we'll go ahead and do that now..."

darthradius

Member

Registered: 2005-11-28

Posts: 97

Re: Irrationality of sqrt(n)

looks okay to me...:)

---

The greatest challenge to any thinker is stating the problem in a way that will allow a solution.
                                                             -Bertrand Russell

krassi_holmz

Real Member

Registered: 2005-12-02

Posts: 1,905

Re: Irrationality of sqrt(n)

Very good proof. I think it's ok too.

---

IPBLE:  Increasing Performance By Lowering Expectations.