What is 0/0 and why does it cause so much confusion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical expression 0/0, which is a point of confusion in mathematics. Participants argue that 0/0 cannot equal 1 because division by zero is undefined. Additionally, some suggest that it could be considered infinite in certain contexts, but this is also misleading. Ultimately, the consensus is that 0/0 is indeterminate and does not have a definitive value.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic arithmetic operations
  • Familiarity with the concept of division by zero
  • Knowledge of mathematical limits and indeterminate forms
  • Basic algebraic principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of indeterminate forms in calculus
  • Learn about limits and how they apply to expressions like 0/0
  • Explore the implications of division by zero in different mathematical contexts
  • Study the definitions and properties of infinity in mathematics
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding fundamental mathematical concepts, particularly those related to division and limits.

Blackhawk4560
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Problem- 0/0 = ?

This has kept me up pacing the Floors many nights now, but what is 0/0?

It's either,
0/0 = 1, because anything over itself is 1
0/0 = no solution because you cannot divide by zero

Or,
0/0 = infinite, because say you have an empty jar of m&m's, how many other jars could you fill with the same amount?Crazy stuff :D
Blackhawk
 
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https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=530207
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Blackhawk4560 said:
This has kept me up pacing the Floors many nights now, but what is 0/0?

It's either,
0/0 = 1, because anything over itself is 1
0/0 = no solution because you cannot divide by zero
This... (the one above)
It's NOT true that "anything over itself" is 1. The "anything" can't be zero.
Blackhawk4560 said:
Or,
0/0 = infinite, because say you have an empty jar of m&m's, how many other jars could you fill with the same amount?
"infinite" is not a word, but infinite is.
Blackhawk4560 said:
Crazy stuff :D
Blackhawk
 

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