Proving Irrationality of \sqrt[3]{3}

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The discussion centers on proving that \sqrt[3]{3} is irrational. The initial approach involves assuming \sqrt[3]{3} can be expressed as a fraction m/n, leading to the equation m^3 = 3n^3. A key point is that if n^2 is a multiple of 3, then n must also be a multiple of 3, which supports the irrationality argument. Participants reference a more general proof linked in the thread for further clarification. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the properties of integers in relation to multiples of 3.
SpatialVacancy
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Hello all,

Prove that \sqrt[3]{3} is irrational.

Heres what I have so far:
\sqrt[3]{3}=\dfrac{m}{n}
3=\dfrac{m^3}{n^3}
m^3=3n^3

Now, I think I am to assume that there is more than one factor of three on the right, or something, I don't know. Can someone point me in the right direction?

Thanks.
 
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Any integer n is either
1) a multiple of 3: n= 3m in which case n2= 9m2= 3(3m2)

2) a multiple of 3 plus 1: n= 3m+1 in which case n2= 9m2+ 6m+ 1= 3(3m2+ 2m)+ 1

3) a multiple of 3 plus 2: n= 3m+2 in which case n2= 9m2+ 12m+ 4= 9m2+ 12m+ 3+ 1= 3(3m2+ 4m+1)+ 1.

In other words, if n2 is a multiple of 3, then n must be a multiple of 3.
 
Halls,it's the 3-rd power. :wink: I've given him the link to Hurkyl's general proof in the other thread in HS homework section...

Daniel.
 
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