If x/y
is rational, must x and y each be rational?
A) Yes; because the quotient of rationals is rational.
B) No; because x and y could have a common irrational factor.
C) No; because the quotient of irrationals is always irrational.
D) Yes; because x and y must be integers, and integers are rational.

Respuesta :

The answer is B.

Consider the fraction [tex] \frac{6 \sqrt{5} }{\sqrt{5}} [/tex].

Both the numerator and denominator, when by themselves, are irrational.

However, when they are divided, they result in the rational number [tex] \frac{6 \sqrt{5} }{\sqrt{5}}=\boxed{6}[/tex].

When [tex]p,q[/tex] have the same irrational factor, the irrational factor will be cancelled from the fraction and (possibly) leave a rational number.


Answer: The answer is B.


Step-by-step explanation:

No; because x and y could have a common irrational factor.