Can Division by Zero Be Solved in Mathematics?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the impossibility of solving division by zero in mathematics. The analysis reveals that expressions like x/0 lead to contradictions, particularly when considering limits and graph behavior. Specifically, the equations y=0/0 and y=x/0 illustrate that division by zero results in infinite horizontal and vertical lines, respectively, which cannot be reconciled within standard arithmetic. Ultimately, the consensus is that division by zero is undefined and cannot be integrated into existing mathematical frameworks without creating contradictions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic algebraic concepts, particularly limits and graphing.
  • Familiarity with the properties of zero in arithmetic operations.
  • Knowledge of differentiation and its application in calculus.
  • Basic comprehension of mathematical contradictions and their implications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of limits in calculus, particularly how they relate to division by zero.
  • Explore the implications of undefined expressions in algebra and calculus.
  • Study the properties of zero in different mathematical structures, such as rings and fields.
  • Investigate alternative mathematical frameworks that address division by zero, such as projective geometry.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for mathematicians, educators, and students interested in advanced algebra and calculus, particularly those exploring the foundations of mathematical operations and their limitations.

IDK10
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First of all, I didn't know where to put this in general math or differential equations.

Let's start with the basic, x/0 = α. Where α is every number and decimal number from -∞ to +∞, by rearranging, we get x = 0α, x= 0, therefore only 0/0 = α. Now, we can integrate this with graphs.

Take the equations:
y=0/0,
and y=x/0, and the variant y=(x+a)/0

y=0/0:
If y=2 then there will be a horizontal line going through the points (x, 2), where x is any number on the x-axis. However, 0/0 = α, and therefore y=α, and as this means there will be infinite jorizontal lines, the entire graph will be full.

y=x/0:
Now we are dealing with a change in x. By rearrangin, we get x=0, therefore a graph of y=x/0 ≡ x=0. Another way of proving this, is that when x is greater than, or less than 0. It won't work, for example y=1/0, 0y=1, 0=1, but 0≠1, but if it is replaced with 0, y=0/0, we get the infinite vertical line from before, but is trapped at x=0 because of the change in x making other lines impossible.

y=(x+a)/0:
This time, by rearranging, we get x=-a. By using what we said before, it works the same way. For example, y=(x-4)/0. If x = 4, then we get y=0/0, therefore we get an infinite vertical line at x=4, but mot anyother line because if x/0=0 (where x≠0), it won't work.

The gradient of y=x/0:
y=x/0, is the same as y= x*1/0, and by differentiation we get dy/dx = 1/0, but 1/0 is impossible since, by rearranging, we get from 1/0=x to 1=0, but 1≠0, yet there is a gradient, otherwise it wouldn't be traveling upwards, the graphs and differentiation contradict each other.

The gradient of y=(x+a)/0 will be the same, as nothing would change to the line, apart from its translation across the x-axis. Proof:
y=(x+a)/0
x - dy/dx = 1
a - dy/dx = 0
dy/dx = (1+0)0 = 1/0.
 
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IDK10 said:
First of all, I didn't know where to put this in general math or differential equations.

State what you are trying to do. "Solved divisions by zero" doesn't say anything specific.
 
IDK10 said:
"I solved divisions by zero": First of all,
... there is no problem to solve. ##0## when it is used alongside addition and multiplication, denotes the neutral element of addition, which doesn't belong to the multiplicative structure consider simultaneously. Thus it is simply impossible to think about its inverse. If you add it to the multiplicative structure, then you consequently invent an entire new arithmetic, which you would have to define in the first place. Given the usual structure, contradictions cannot be avoided. Thus a combination of both is doomed to fail.

Beside that we don't discuss personal theories on PF.
Thread closed.
 

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