Are e and π Transcendental Numbers? Investigating the Rationality of e + π

  • Thread starter glebovg
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Numbers
In summary, transcendental numbers are real numbers that cannot be expressed as a root of a polynomial equation with integer coefficients. They are different from irrational numbers, as all transcendental numbers are irrational but not all irrational numbers are transcendental. The concept was first introduced by Joseph-Louis Lagrange and the term was coined by Carl Louis Ferdinand von Lindemann. Transcendental numbers are used in mathematics for the study of continuous functions and infinite series, and there are infinitely many of them, with the majority of real numbers being transcendental. However, their specific properties and distribution are still largely unknown.
  • #1
glebovg
164
1
Is there a proof that there exist (or does not exist) integers m and n such that [itex]{e^{m/n}} = \pi[/itex]? How would one prove such a statement?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
Along those lines, it's unknown whether [itex]e + \pi[/itex] is rational or irrational. If it turned out to be rational, that would be amazing, wouldn't it?
 

FAQ: Are e and π Transcendental Numbers? Investigating the Rationality of e + π

What are transcendental numbers?

Transcendental numbers are real numbers that are not algebraic, meaning they cannot be expressed as a root of a polynomial equation with integer coefficients. They are infinite, non-repeating, and cannot be represented as a fraction. Examples of transcendental numbers include pi and e.

How are transcendental numbers different from irrational numbers?

All transcendental numbers are irrational, but not all irrational numbers are transcendental. Irrational numbers include both algebraic and transcendental numbers, while transcendental numbers are specifically those that cannot be expressed as roots of polynomial equations.

Who discovered the concept of transcendental numbers?

The concept of transcendental numbers was first introduced by mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange in 1751, but the term "transcendental" was coined by German mathematician Carl Louis Ferdinand von Lindemann in 1882.

How are transcendental numbers used in mathematics?

Transcendental numbers play an important role in mathematics, particularly in the field of analysis. They are used in the study of continuous functions and infinite series, and are essential for understanding and proving many mathematical theorems.

Are there infinitely many transcendental numbers?

Yes, there are infinitely many transcendental numbers. In fact, it has been proven that the majority of real numbers are transcendental. However, specific transcendental numbers are difficult to identify and there are still many unsolved questions about their distribution and properties.

Similar threads

Back
Top