Algebraic Proof That 2 = 1 - Prove it wrong! - - Krista - -

This is PROOF that 2 does indeed equal 1. Who can find the loophole in this equation?

First off, let's say "x" and "y" are of equal values. Thus:

x = y

Now, we can multiply both sides by "x."

x^2 = xy

Let's subtract y^2 on both sides. This is still valid, right?

x^2 - y^2 = xy - y^2

Then we can factor each side.

(x - y)(x + y) = y(x - y)

We then simply divide by (x - y) on both sides.

x + y = y

Since x = y, let's go ahead and substitute x into y.

x + x = x

Simplify...

2x = x

And substitute 1 into x.

2(1) = 1

Simplify some more, and we find that 2 equals 1.

2 = 1

Now, who can find the error in this logic? Come on, USM math geeks. Prove me wrong.

-Krista

The idea came from PressAnyKey. The explanation was written by me.

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