1= .9999999999999999999.

1. Oct 7, 2005

Demodocus

1= .9999999999999999999.........

Here it is...

1/3= .33333333333...........

2/3= .6666666666.........

so

3/3= .9999999999.......

so

1= .999999999........

Wtf?

I think that this "paradox" means that there is a problem with our definition of infinity. At least, the definition needs to be refined. Does this mean that 1 is not equal to one, or is .9999999... another name for one? I think this topic needs to be adressed.

2. Oct 7, 2005

mezarashi

Oh no, I remember a long one discussing this. Something about convergence, but I'll sit back and watch :)

3. Oct 7, 2005

Gokul43201

Staff Emeritus
4. Oct 8, 2005

HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
Ouch! Another one. Demodocus- there is nothing wrong with "our" definition of infinity (actually, I can't speak for yours). Yes, 0.9999.... is just another name for 1 (that, I must say, is put very nicely). Our definition of "base 10 enumeration system" is such that 0.9999.... means the sum of the infinite series 9/10+ 9/100+ 9/100+ ... which is a geometric series that can be shown to converge to 1.