2 ms·
If you replace your numerical values with algebraic symbols, you may see the problem with your analysis -- its use of a zero allows 1 to equal 2, as shown in th
by lutusp 13y ago
If you replace your numerical values with algebraic symbols, you may see the problem with your analysis -- its use of a zero allows 1 to equal 2, as shown in this classic example:
http://www.jimloy.com/algebra/two.htm http://www.jimloy.com/algebra/two.htm
So multiplying by zero isn't always a legitimate operation. That's why the multiplicative identity is one, not zero.
- gizmo686 13y agoMultiplying both sides by zero is always legitimate (if rarely useful). In the example linked, the error is in dividing by zero. More specifically, in dividing by (a-x). Formally speaking, this operation is only defined when (a-x)!=0. Mutipling by zero is defined for all real numbers.
- lutusp 13y agoThe parallel I was making is that a numerical term invalidated an equation, rendered it meaningless, not that the circumstances were identical.