Irrational or Rational [Newton-Raphson]

[luznyr]

Homework Statement

How are you able to determine if a solution is rational or irrational

Homework Equations

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The Attempt at a Solution

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I'm pretty sure it will be something basic I'm forgetting, thanks for any help.

 

[HallsofIvy]

If you mean that you are using the Newton-Raphson method to solve an equation, then there are two oppposite ways to answer: (1) The "solution" the Newton-Raphson method gives you- which may be only approximate is always rational because it can only give you a finite number of decimal places. (2) There is no way of determining from the Newton-Raphson method whether or not the true solution to the equation is rational or irrational because you cannot determine the true solution using the Newton-
Raphson method.

 

[luznyr]

cheers, never would of thought of that.