Proving Negative Real Numbers Using Contradiction

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To prove by contradiction that a real number less than every positive real number cannot be positive, assume there exists a positive real number x that is less than all positive real numbers. If x is positive, then x/2 must also be positive and less than x, contradicting the assumption that x is less than every positive real number. This contradiction implies that no positive real number can be less than every positive real number. Therefore, the initial assumption must be false, confirming that a real number less than every positive real number cannot be positive. The discussion highlights the challenge of understanding the contradiction principle in this context.
zoxee
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Prove by contradiction that a real number that is less than every positive real number cannot be positive

having troubles with this

could someone give me a small hint to get started?
 
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zoxee said:
Prove by contradiction that a real number that is less than every positive real number cannot be positive

having troubles with this

could someone give me a small hint to get started?

Suppose x > 0 is such that every positive real number is greater than or equal to x. What then is x/2?
 
pasmith said:
Suppose x > 0 is such that every positive real number is greater than or equal to x. What then is x/2?

I'm sorry but I can't seem to proceed even with this hint :(
 
zoxee said:
I'm sorry but I can't seem to proceed even with this hint :(

Given that x is a positive real number, is x/2 a positive real number?
 
I wouldn't even bother with x/2. Suppose x is positive. Can it then be "less than every positive number"
 
zoxee said:
Prove by contradiction that a real number that is less than every positive real number cannot be positive

having troubles with this

could someone give me a small hint to get started?

Please check your PMs. The PF Rules require that you show some effort before we offer tutorial help.
 

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