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Math Forum » Discussions » sci.math.* » sci.math.independent

Topic: Divisor of Zero
Replies: 19   Last Post: Apr 30, 2012 4:58 PM

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Frederick Williams

Posts: 2,166
Registered: 10/4/10
Re: Divisor of Zero
Posted: Apr 26, 2012 4:42 PM
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DonH wrote:

>
> # "If ab = 0 one usually concludes that a = 0 or b = 0."
> So, in effect, a*0 = 0,

While it is true that a*0 = 0, your use of the word "So" implies that it
follows from the previous line, which it doesn't.

> whence, a = 0/0

From a*0 = 0 one cannot conclude that a = 0/0,

> = 1?

nor that 0/0 = 1, for the very reason you go on to mention.

> Ah, but you can never divide by 0. (Or, if you do, you get infinity).

--
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by
this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him.
Jonathan Swift: Thoughts on Various Subjects, Moral and Diverting

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