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Be Reasonable

Prove that sqrt2, sqrt3 and sqrt5 cannot be terms of ANY arithmetic progression.

Good Approximations

Solve quadratic equations and use continued fractions to find rational approximations to irrational numbers.

Rational Roots

Given that a, b and c are natural numbers show that if sqrt a+sqrt b is rational then it is a natural number. Extend this to 3 variables.

The Clue Is in the Question

Age 16 to 18
Challenge Level

This problem is in two parts. The first part provides some building blocks which will help you to solve the final challenge. These can be attempted in any order. This problem can also test your powers of conjecture and discovery: As you start from one of the mini-challenges, how many of the other related mini-challenges will you invent for yourself?

This challenge involves building up a set $F$ of fractions using a starting fraction and two operations which you use to generate new fractions from any member of $F$.

Rule 1: $F$ contains the fraction $\frac{1}{2}$.

Rule 2: If $\frac{p}{q}$ is in $F$ then $\frac{p}{p+q}$ is also in $F$.

Rule 3: If $\frac{p}{q}$ is in $F$ then $\frac{q}{p+q}$ is also in $F$.


Choose a mini-challenge from below to get started. There is a lot to think about in each of these mini-challenges, so as you think about them, continually ask yourself: Do I have any other thoughts? Do any other questions arise for me? Make a note of these, as they might help when you consider other parts of the problem.


Mini-challenge A
Mini-challenge B
Mini-challenge C
Mini-challenge D
Mini-challenge E
Mini-challenge F
FINAL CHALLENGE