All Numbers are Interesting

There are clearly many interesting whole numbers. For instance, 2 is the only even prime number, 3 is the first odd prime, 6 is a perfect number (the sum of the proper divisors is the number itself), etc.

But did you know that all whole numbers are interesting? We shall prove it here.

Suppose, for the sake of contradiction, that not all whole numbers are interesting. Using the well-ordering property of the whole numbers, among the non-interesting numbers there is a smallest non-interesting number N. But that would make N interesting, after all, a contradiction.

Therefore all numbers are interesting.

The Math Behind the Fact:
This is a rather amusing model of a proof by contradiction, and perhaps shouldn't be taken too seriously!

How to Cite this Page:
Su, Francis E., et al. "All Numbers are Interesting." Mudd Math Fun Facts. <http://www.math.hmc.edu/funfacts>.

Keywords:    paradox Subjects:    other Level:    Medium Fun Fact suggested by:   Francis Su Suggestions? Use this form. 3.23 current rating Click to rate this Fun Fact...     *   Awesome! I totally dig it!     *   Fun enough to tell a friend!     *   Mildly interesting     *   Not really noteworthy and see the most popular Facts!

Want another Math Fun Fact?

For more fun, tour the Mathematics Department at Harvey Mudd College!