How do I prove that an irrational number is indeed irrational?

[NOTE: An irreducible fraction (or fraction in lowest terms) is a fraction in which the numerator and denominator are integers that have no other common divisors than 1.]Given that p is a prime, positive integer and not a square number, we know that √p is irrational. Let's prove this:Proof: We shall use Proof by Contradiction;Let's suppose towards a contradiction that √p is in fact rational.This implies that there exists two non-negative integers, call them m and n, such that:√p = m / n , where n is not zero and m/n is an irreducible fraction.<=> p = m2 / n (Squared both sides)<=> pn= m2....(#)  (Multiplied through equation by n2)From eqn(#), it follows that, since p is prime, p | m(i.e. p divides m2which thus implies also that p | m. This means that there exists some natural number, call it k, such that:pk = m....(##).Now, sub eqn(##) into eqn(#), we thus obtain:pn2 = p2k2<=> n= pk2  (Divided through by p)This last implies that p | n2, which further implies:p | n.BUT since p divides both m and n, this contradicts the fact that m and n were chosen to be irreducible, so our original assumption was incorrect.It thus follows that p is in fact irrational, as required. 

LD
Answered by Liam D. Maths tutor

7944 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve C has equation y = (x^2 -4x - 2)^2. Point P lies on C and has coordinates (3,N). Find: a) the value of N. b) the equation of the tangent to C at the point P, in the form y=mx+c where m and c are constants to be found. c) determine d^2y/dx^2.


Find the equation of the tangent of the curve y = (8x)/(x-8) at the point (0,0)


Show how to derive the quadratic formula


Find the area contained under the curve y =3x^2 - x^3 between 0 and 3


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning