A defining features of learning mathematics is being able to read, write, and discover
proofs. A
proof is a method of communicating a mathematical truth to another person who speaks the "language" of mathematics. It's a way of showing whether a statement made is absolutely true or false.
I recently came across a
fallacious proof attempting to show that the integer
one equals two – shown are the steps to accomplish this. Common sense dictates that this is impossible, but the proof is somewhat convincing to the untrained eye. However, most people with basic algebraic knowledge should be able to pick out the mistake, so take a minute or two to see if you can identify the incorrect step. If you're stuck, don't give up so quickly! It's easier than you think.
A solution to the problem is provided in the video linked below.
