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2007-06-17 15:10:15 · 6 answers · asked by apple 5 in Science & Mathematics Mathematics

6 answers

Proofs of mathematical statements rely on the use mathematical logic: conjunctions, disjunctions, bijections, etc. Each step of a proof follows directly from information given as true or information that you have proven true. You must be very careful creating and following the steps, otherwise you may make a false claim that invalidates your proof.
For example, in geometry, one way to prove an object is a square is to first show that it is a quadrilateral, then that is a parallelogram, then that it contains a right angle, then that adjacent sides are equal (there are many other ways to prove something is a square).
To become good at proofs, you must practice. When you first start, it is helpful to make a table: the left side is where you will put statements you wish to make, the right side is where you will put your reasoning. Acceptable reasoning includes: given information, definitions, previously covered theorems and postulates, and information previously proven true in the proof. As you practice and gain a better understanding of the material, you will be amazed at how much you can prove true with only a limited amount of information.

2007-06-17 15:34:32 · answer #1 · answered by Dan 3 · 0 0

A proof is a statement. You will need to show by mathematical work that the proof is indeed correct for the given situation. Each proof varies and will require different results to prove it.

2007-06-17 22:16:51 · answer #2 · answered by Cool Nerd At Your Service 4 · 0 0

For proving a statement, first of all u need to know all the basic theorems with their proofs, all the axioms and all the postulates that will help us in proving the statement..Then you need to concentrate on the question and need to figure out what theorems are required to solve the proof.
Now, there are three basic ways of proving a statement.
(i) mathematical method- this method uses algebra and/or mathematical induction.
example-Prove that (a+b)^2=a^2+b^2+2ab
(ii)logical method- this method uses logical arguements like contradiction
example- Prove that through two given points in a plane, one and only one line can pass.
(iii)geometrical method-this method uses geometry
example-Prove tjat the sum of all the angles of a triangle is 180 degrees.

2007-06-17 22:52:48 · answer #3 · answered by Happy 3 · 0 0

First, you have to understand the material. In particular, you have to know and understand the definitions. That means studying. And you have to know how the material is applied to problems. Then you need to be able to think logically and rationally.
At that point, you're ready to start proving things about relationships between mathematical objects.

Doug

2007-06-17 22:19:14 · answer #4 · answered by doug_donaghue 7 · 0 0

You need to know all of the rules. You need to practice, practice, practice until you learn to think that way.

2007-06-17 22:14:48 · answer #5 · answered by TychaBrahe 7 · 0 0

yes, i'm rather good at geometry!

2007-06-17 22:19:28 · answer #6 · answered by Chuck M 2 · 0 0

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