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Exercise 12Number theory › IrrationalityHigh schoolAdded 3 Nov 2026

Sum of irrational and rational

#irrationality#sum#rational

Statement

Show that the sum of a rational and an irrational is irrational.

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Solution

Contradiction. Suppose r∈Qr\in\mathbb{Q}, x∉Qx\notin\mathbb{Q}, and r+x=q∈Qr+x=q\in\mathbb{Q}. Then, x=q−r∈Qx=q-r\in\mathbb{Q} (difference of two rationals), contradicting x∉Qx\notin\mathbb{Q}.

Conclusion. r+xr+x is irrational.

Application. 2+1\sqrt2+1 is irrational.