Quote:
Originally Posted by pdurrant
Maths question:
Express the square root of 2 as a fraction. Or show why it can't be done.
Non-maths question:
Where (according to the Bible) did Mary and Joseph go when they left Bethlehem after Jesus had been born?
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First question, can't be done as the square root of 2 is irrational.
Suppose sqrt(2) rational? then exist natural numbers (l/m)^2 = 2;
with any common divisor between l and m removed. then l^2 = 2xm^2. so l^2 is even. All natural numbers with even squares are even as well. So l = 2xp for some natural number p. meaning l^2 = 4xp^2 = 2xm^2. this means 2xp^2 = m^2; So m^2 is also even, and so m is. But this means l and m still have a common divisor.
Second question I would be cheating after seeing the P&R forum this morning.
Oh I did not get question 2 so someone else is up no matter what!