Math Problem Statement

Megan added two numbers and the resulting sum was an irrational number. If the first number was 2/3, which of the following could be the second number? A. 6/5 B. 3π C. 5 D. √9

Solution

The problem states that Megan added two numbers, and the resulting sum was an irrational number. The first number was 23\frac{2}{3}, and we need to determine which of the following could be the second number to make the sum irrational.

Key Points:

  • The first number, 23\frac{2}{3}, is a rational number.
  • The sum of two rational numbers is always rational. Therefore, to obtain an irrational sum, the second number must be irrational.
  • We need to identify the irrational number from the choices provided.

Let's analyze the options:

  • Option A: 65\frac{6}{5}
    65\frac{6}{5} is a rational number (since it's a ratio of two integers). Therefore, adding this to 23\frac{2}{3} will result in a rational number.

  • Option B: 3π3\pi
    π\pi is irrational, and multiplying it by 3 keeps it irrational. Adding 3π3\pi to 23\frac{2}{3} results in an irrational number, since the sum of a rational and an irrational number is always irrational. Thus, this could be the correct answer.

  • Option C: 5
    5 is a rational number. Adding this to 23\frac{2}{3} will give a rational number, not an irrational one.

  • Option D: 9\sqrt{9}
    9=3\sqrt{9} = 3, which is a rational number. Adding 3 to 23\frac{2}{3} results in a rational sum.

Conclusion:

The second number that could lead to an irrational sum is Option B: 3π3\pi.

Would you like further clarification or details on irrational numbers? Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. What is the difference between rational and irrational numbers?
  2. How can the sum of a rational and an irrational number be irrational?
  3. Can the product of a rational and an irrational number ever be rational?
  4. How can you prove that π\pi is irrational?
  5. What are some examples of irrational numbers besides π\pi?

Tip: Whenever you're asked to determine if a number is irrational, check if it can be written as a fraction of two integers—if not, it's irrational!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Numbers
Irrational Numbers
Sum of Rational and Irrational Numbers

Formulas

None

Theorems

The sum of a rational and an irrational number is always irrational.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-10