Math Problem Statement

If x and y are two real numbers, prove that if xy = 0, then x = 0 or y = 0.

Solution

The problem is written in Greek, and it translates to:

"If xx and yy are two real numbers, prove that if xy=0xy = 0, then x=0x = 0 or y=0y = 0."

Proof:

To prove that if xy=0xy = 0, then either x=0x = 0 or y=0y = 0, we can use the following reasoning:

  1. Given: xx and yy are real numbers, and xy=0xy = 0.

  2. If the product of two real numbers is zero, at least one of the numbers must be zero. This follows from a basic property of real numbers, known as the zero-product property.

    • Assume xy=0xy = 0.

    • If x0x \neq 0, then we can divide both sides of the equation xy=0xy = 0 by xx. This gives: y=0x=0.y = \frac{0}{x} = 0.

    • Alternatively, if y0y \neq 0, then we can divide both sides of the equation xy=0xy = 0 by yy. This gives: x=0y=0.x = \frac{0}{y} = 0.

  3. Therefore, if xy=0xy = 0, then either x=0x = 0 or y=0y = 0.

This completes the proof.

Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the zero-product property, and why is it important in algebra?
  2. Can you give examples of situations where this property is used in equations?
  3. How would this property apply to complex numbers or matrices?
  4. Is the zero-product property valid for all types of numbers (like real, complex, etc.)?
  5. How does this concept relate to solving quadratic equations?

Tip: Understanding the zero-product property is crucial for solving various algebraic equations, especially quadratic ones.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Real Numbers
Zero Product Property

Formulas

xy = 0

Theorems

Zero Product Property

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10