Equivalence Problem: Is A and B Equivalent?

In summary: Statement 2 is not equivalent to statement 1 because it says that sqrt(n) can be either an integer or irrational.
  • #1
soopo
225
0

Homework Statement


Are the statements A and B equivalent with each other?

A. Suppose that n is an integer which is not a perfect square.
B. If n >= 1, then [tex]\sqrt{n}[/tex] is either an integer or is irrational.

The Attempt at a Solution


I am keen on saying that the two statements are not equivalent.
However, Oxford's undergraduate booklet claims that they are equivalent.

In my opinion, A is inclined to that n is not a perfect square, while B is neutral.
 
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  • #2
they are quite different. Statement 1, is an assumption (which we are assuming to be true), whereas statement 2 is a...well its a statement (that may be true/false)

Also, consider the second statement

It says sqrt(n) is either integer or irrational. This means sqrt(n) could be sqrt(2/3) which is also irrational. However, it is not equivalent to saying n is an "integer" and not a perfect square..

edit: ok, Statement 2 also says n>=1(missed that) so just do the entire same argument for sqrt(3/2), that'll also hold
 
  • #3
they are quite different. Statement 1, is an assumption (which we are assuming to be true), whereas statement 2 is a...well its a statement (that may be true/false)

Also, consider the second statement

It says sqrt(n) is either integer or irrational. This means sqrt(n) could be sqrt(2/3) which is also irrational. However, it is not equivalent to saying n is an "integer" and not a perfect square..
 
  • #4
praharmitra said:
they are quite different. Statement 1, is an assumption (which we are assuming to be true), whereas statement 2 is a...well its a statement (that may be true/false)

Also, consider the second statement

It says sqrt(n) is either integer or irrational. This means sqrt(n) could be sqrt(2/3) which is also irrational. However, it is not equivalent to saying n is an "integer" and not a perfect square..

I agree with you.
 
  • #5
praharmitra said:
edit: ok, Statement 2 also says n>=1(missed that) so just do the entire same argument for sqrt(3/2), that'll also hold

Do you mean that the two statements are equivalent?
 
  • #6
No he still means they are not equivalent. Just plug in 3/2 instead of 2/3 in his previous argument of why they are not equivalent.
 
  • #7
dperkin2 said:
No he still means they are not equivalent. Just plug in 3/2 instead of 2/3 in his previous argument of why they are not equivalent.

Thank you both!
The problem is now clear.
 

FAQ: Equivalence Problem: Is A and B Equivalent?

What is the equivalence problem?

The equivalence problem is a fundamental concept in mathematics and computer science that involves determining whether two objects or systems are equivalent or equal in some way.

How is the equivalence problem different from the equality problem?

The equivalence problem is concerned with determining whether two objects are equivalent in some way, while the equality problem is concerned with determining whether two objects are exactly the same in every aspect.

What are some examples of the equivalence problem?

Some examples of the equivalence problem include determining whether two mathematical expressions are equivalent, whether two physical systems have the same properties, or whether two programming languages have the same functionality.

What are some methods for solving the equivalence problem?

There are several methods for solving the equivalence problem, including using logical or mathematical proofs, conducting experiments or tests, or using algorithms or heuristics to compare and analyze the objects or systems in question.

Why is the equivalence problem important in science and technology?

The equivalence problem is important in science and technology because it allows us to determine whether different objects or systems are equivalent, which can help us to understand and solve complex problems, identify patterns, and make predictions. It is also crucial in fields such as cryptography, where determining the equivalence of different encryption methods is essential for ensuring security.

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