Prove f(y) = y for every real number y

Click For Summary
The discussion focuses on proving that a continuous function f: R->R, which satisfies f(q) = q for all rational numbers q, also holds true for every real number y. The key point is to leverage the property that every irrational number can be approached by a sequence of rational numbers. By applying the continuity of the function, one can show that as the sequence of rational numbers converges to an irrational number, the function values must converge to that number as well. This leads to the conclusion that f(y) = y for all real numbers y. The proof hinges on the combination of continuity and the density of rational numbers in the real number line.
Annie B
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
A function f: R->R is a continuous function such that f(q) = q for every rational number q.
Prove f(y) = y for every real number y.

I know every irrational number is the limit to a sequence of rational numbers. But I not sure how to prove f(y) = y for every real number y. Any ideas?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I moved your thread to our homework forums.

You can use exactly that property about limits, together with continuity.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
4K