MHB What Does It Mean for Expressions to Be Non-Integral and Non-Rational?

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The discussion clarifies the definitions of non-integral and non-rational expressions in algebraic terms. An expression is considered non-integral if it does not yield an integer value for all permissible inputs; for example, the expression $\frac{4y}{x}$ is non-integral in x unless x equals 1 or a common factor of the numerator. Similarly, an expression is non-rational if it does not consistently produce a rational value; the expression $3x\sqrt{y}z^3$ is non-rational in y unless y is a perfect square of a rational number.

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can you explain what it means when they are not "Integral" and not "Rational"?

$\frac{4y}{x} = 4yx^{-1 }$ is not integral in x
$3x\sqrt{y}z^3$ not rational in y
 
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Drain Brain said:
can you explain what it means when they are not "Integral" and not "Rational"?

$\frac{4y}{x} = 4yx^{-1 }$ is not integral in x
$3x\sqrt{y}z^3$ not rational in y

To be integral, your expression needs to always give an integer value. If x is anything but 1 or a common factor of the top, then your first expression will not be integral.

To be rational, your expression needs to always give a rational (fractional) value. If y is anything but a perfect square of a rational number, then the second expression will not be rational.
 

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