Definition:Real Number/Dedekind Cuts

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Definition

The set of rational numbers are identified with the set of rational cuts.

All other cuts are called, and are identified with, irrational numbers.


Notation

While the symbol $\R$ is the current standard symbol used to denote the set of real numbers, variants are commonly seen.

For example: $\mathbf R$, $\RR$ and $\mathfrak R$, or even just $R$.


Also known as

When the term number is used in general discourse, it is often tacitly understood as meaning real number.

They are sometimes referred to in the pedagogical context as ordinary numbers, so as to distinguish them from complex numbers


However, depending on the context, the word number may also be taken to mean integer or natural number.

Hence it is wise to be specific.


Also see

  • Results about real numbers can be found here.


Sources