Prove that the following number is irrational.
$4+\sqrt{2}$

Given: $4\ +\ \sqrt{2}$

To do: Here we have to prove that $4\ +\ \sqrt{2}$ is an irrational number.

Solution:

Let us assume, to the contrary, that $4\ +\ \sqrt{2}$ is rational.

So, we can find integers a and b ($≠$ 0) such that  $4\ +\ \sqrt{2}\ =\ \frac{a}{b}$.

Where a and b are co-prime.

Now,

$4\ +\ \sqrt{2}\ =\ \frac{a}{b}$

$\sqrt{2}\ =\ \frac{a}{b}\ -\ 4$

$\sqrt{2}\ =\ \frac{a\ -\ 4b}{b}$

Here, $\frac{a\ -\ 4b}{b}$ is a rational number but $\sqrt{2}$ is irrational number. 

But, Irrational number  $≠$  Rational number.

This contradiction has arisen because of our incorrect assumption that $4\ +\ \sqrt{2}$ is rational.

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Updated on: 10-Oct-2022

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