To determine whether √5 is rational or irrational, we can apply the RARE method, which stands for Reason, Answer, Reason, and Example. A rational number can be expressed as a fraction of two integers, while an irrational number cannot. Since √5 cannot be expressed as a fraction of two integers (the square root of a non-perfect square like 5 doesn’t yield a whole number), it is irrational; a counter-example of a rational number would be √4, which equals 2, a whole number.
3.
Determine whether the number √5 is irrational or rational. Use the RARE method to explain your answer clearly. Use the vocabulary from our Unit 2 lessons and include a counter-example to clarify your point. Your response should be 3 full sentences to earn 3 full points back on your test.
1 answer