Show √ 2 + √ 3 algebraic over Q

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SUMMARY

The expression √2 + √3 is algebraic over Q, with its minimal polynomial given by f(x) = x^4 - 10x^2 + 1. This polynomial is irreducible in Q[X], as demonstrated by the rational root test, which confirms that √2 + √3 is not a rational number. The degree of √2 + √3 over Q is established as 4, indicating that it cannot be expressed as a root of any polynomial with rational coefficients of lower degree.

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Homework Statement


Show √ 2 + √ 3 algebraic over Q. Find its degree over Q. Prove the answer.

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The Attempt at a Solution


Let ##\alpha= \sqrt{2}+\sqrt{3}\in \mathbb{R}##, then ##\alpha^4-10\alpha^2+1=0## which is a root of ##f(x)=x^4-10x^2+1## where ##f(x)## in ##\mathbb{Q}[X]##. Apply rational root test, ##f(\pm 1)=-8## which implies ##\alpha \notin \mathbb{Q}##.
Also, ##f(x)=x^4-10x^2+1=(x^2+2\sqrt{6}-5)(x^2-2\sqrt{6}+5)\notin \mathbb{Q}[X]##, hence ##f(x)## is irreducible in ##\mathbb{Q}[X]## which shows ##\alpha## is degree of ##4##.
 
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