An Argument for a New Description of “Division by Zero”
Keywords:
Division by zero, proof and argumentation, definitionsAbstract
Instead of simply characterizing division by zero as “undefined” to students, we argue that it should be considered on the basis of mathematically consistent equations. Division by zero leads to inconsistent mathematical statements that are just as invalid as other incorrect statements. We propose that division by zero should be characterized as “inconsistent” rather than “undefined.” Consistency underlies the fundamental truth of all mathematical equations and the interrelationships between mathematical objects.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Richard Kaufman
