Dividing Infinity by Infinity: What is the Result?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of dividing infinity by infinity and how it is undefined in ordinary arithmetic. While there are ways to extend the number system to allow this type of division, most definitions result in the answer being 1. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule.
  • #1
adjacent
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What would happen if,I divide ∞ by ∞.What would be the answer. Would it be 1?
 
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  • #3
phinds said:
If would be undefined.
I don't understand,What do you mean?
 
  • #4
Infinity is not a number and you can't calculate with it like you can with usual numbers. Consider the values of quotients [itex]\frac{x+1}{2x+1}[/itex] and [itex]\frac{2x+1}{3x+1}[/itex] when ##x## is let to grow without bound. In both expressions the numerator and denumerator approach infinity when ##x\rightarrow\infty##, but the value of first expression approaches ##1/2## and the value of second expression approaches ##2/3##. You can't define a unique value for the quotient ##\infty/\infty##.
 
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  • #5
adjacent said:
I don't understand,What do you mean?

What is it about the word "undefined" that you do not understand? It means "would have no definition". Is that not clear?
 
  • #6
In terms of "ordinary arithmetic", "infinity" is NOT a number and so there simply is NO definition for "infinity over infinity". There are ways of extending the number systems to give various types of "infinity" some of which then allow you to divide infinity by infinity. Most of those, but possibly not all, define division so that infinity by infinity is 1.
 

1. What does ∞/∞ mean?

∞/∞ is a mathematical expression that represents infinity divided by infinity. It is considered an indeterminate form, meaning that it does not have a definite numerical value.

2. Is ∞/∞ equal to 1?

No, ∞/∞ is not equal to 1. As an indeterminate form, it does not have a specific numerical value and cannot be simplified to a single number.

3. What happens if we try to calculate ∞/∞?

Trying to calculate ∞/∞ will result in an undefined answer. This is because infinity is not a number and cannot be divided by itself.

4. Can ∞/∞ ever have a defined value?

No, ∞/∞ will always be an indeterminate form and cannot have a defined value. It represents a situation where the limit of a function cannot be determined.

5. How is ∞/∞ used in mathematics?

∞/∞ is used in calculus and other advanced mathematical concepts to indicate the limit of a function as it approaches infinity. It is also used in complex analysis and other branches of mathematics.

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