PRACTICAL PROBLEMS IN REAL NUMBER SYSTEMS AND

ITS SOLUTION
(Semester-3rd Year-2023)
A Project Submitted to Gangadhar Meher University
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of

Undergraduate
In
Physics
By

SUSHANTA PATEL
(Roll N0.: BS22PHY-195)

Under the supervision

Of
Mr. Ashirbad Ku. Rath

2023
School of Mathematics
Gangadhar Meher University, Amruta Vihar
Sambalpur, Odisha, India-768004
Dedicated

To

My Family
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the project entitled “PRACTICAL PROBLEMS IN REAL SYSTEM
AND ITS SOLUTION” to Gangadhar Meher University, for the award of the degree Of the
Undergraduate in Physics is the result of the project work carried out by me in the Gangadhar
Meher University, Amruta Vihar,Sambalpur,Odisha-768004 under the guidanceMr. Ashirbad
Ku. Rath, Asst. Professor ofSchool of Mathematics,Gangadhar Meher University, Amruta
Vihar, Sambalpur, Odisha,during the period August 2023-December2023.

Date-December 18,2023 Sushanta Patel

Place- Sambalpur Roll No.-BS22PHY-195

 SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS
GANGADHAR MEHER UNIVERSITY, AMRUTA VIHAR
SAMBALPUR, ODISHA, INDIA-768004

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project contained in the project entitled “PRACTICAL PROBLEMS
IN REAL NUMBER SYSTEM AND IT’S SOLUTIONS”, submitted by Mr. Sushanta Patel
(BS22PHY-195) for the award of degree of Bachelor of Science to Gangadhar Meher
University,Amruta Vihar, Sambalpur, Odisha -768004, is a record of bonafied project work
carried out by him under my direct supervision and guidance. I consider that the project has
reached the standards and fulfilling the requirements of the rules and regulations relating to the
nature of degree. The content embodied the project has not been submitted for the award of any
other degree or diploma in this or any other Institute or University.

Date: December 18,2023 Supervisor

Place: Sambalpur
Mr. Ashirbad Kumar Rath
School of Mathematics,
G.M. University, Sambalpur,
Amruta Vihar, Odisha -768004
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Foremost thanks to God, the Almighty for the wisdom he bestowed upon me and
his showers of blessings throughout my dissertation work to complete it
successfully.

Gratitude and indebtedness to my guide, Mr. Ashirbad Ku. Rath,Asst.Professor of

School of Mathematics, Gangadhar Meher University, AmrutaVihar, Sambalpur,
Odisha-768004. His timely direction, complete co-operation and minute
observation have made my project work fruitful rewarding.

I am grateful to all my teachers and non-teaching staff members of the School of

Mathematics, Gangadhar Meher University, Amruta Vihar, Sambalpur, Odisha, for
their encouragement to finish this project work.

I am thankful to my friends and for their help and co-operation till completion of
the report.

Lastly my higher education and career was a dream of my parents and family
members. I am indebted to all of them for their goodwill,love and affection.In
particular I pray for the blessings of my parents without whom I could not have
dreamt anything in my life.

Date: December 18, 2023 Sushanta Patel

Place: Sambalpur Roll No.-BS22PHY-195
 CONTENTS:

1. DECLARATION
2. CERTIFICATE
3. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
4. INTRODUCTION 01
5. DRAWBACK-01
(QUADRATIC EQUATION IN PHYSICS) 02-03

6. DRAWBACK-02
(TRIGONOMETRIC COMPUTATIONS) 04-05
7. DRAWBACK-03
(PRECISION AND ROUNDING ERRORS) 06-07
8. DRAWBACK-04
(CALCULATION OF EXPONENTIALS) 08-09
9. DRAWBACK-05
(GEOMETRIC PROBLEMS INVOLVING
SQUARE ROOTS) 10-11

10. DRAWBACK-06 (INEQUALITY) 12-13

11. CONCLUSION 14
INTRODUCTION:

The real number system is a fundamental mathematical structure encompassing rational and
irrational numbers.It includes all the real number that can be located on a number line.These are
used to measure quantities and perform mathematical operations. They are used in many real
world scenarios, such as describing distances,weights,area, volume, and price.Here are some
examples of real numbers: 3,0,1.5,√ 2.

Real numbers can often be represented as an infinite sum of fraction determined in some regular
way. The decimal expansion is one such sum.
Rational number:These are any number that can be represent as the fraction p/q, where p and q
are not equal to zero. Rational number includes all integers , which can be written as a fraction
with the integer as the numerator and 1 as the denominator .For example 2,-6,3/4 and all
rational numbers.rational numbers also include all fractions and decimals that end or continue
forever in a repeating pattern .For example , 1.1 can be written as 11/10, and 0.33333….. can be
written as 1/3.
Irrational numbers:These are real numbers that cannot be expressed as fraction or ratios made
up of integers.They can be writtwn in decimals but not in the form of fractions.Irrartional
numbers have endless non-repeating digits after the decimal point.
Here are some example of irrational number :
 π : the ratio of a circumference to its diameter , which is always constant.Pi
approximately equals 3.1415926… and is a non terminating non- repeating decimal
number.
 '
Eule r s number=¿ e:2.718281.
 √ 2: There is no number among integers and fraction that equal square root of 2.
 01

DRAWBACK-01

In physics, quadratic equations often arise when dealing with problems related to motion, forces,
and energy. One practical problem involves finding the maximum height reached by a projectile.
The equation governing the height h at time t for an object launched vertically is given by,

Where

ho= initial height

vo=initial velocity

g=acceleration due to gravity

t=time

Practical Problem:

Suppose a ball is launched from the ground ho=0 with an initial velocity vo=20m/s and
g=9.8m/s2.. Find the maximum height reached by the ball and the time it takes to reach that
height.
SOLUTION:
 02
When the ball reaches the max height the vertical velocity of ball will be zero. i.e. v y=0
vy=vo-gt=0
vo 20
t= = ≈ 2.04s
g 9.8
Now put value of t to find maximum height
1
hmax= ho+vot- gt2
2
1
=0+20×2.04- ×9.8 ×(2.04) 2 ≈ 20.41m
2
Therefore the maximum height reached by the ball is approximately 20.41m after about 2.04s.
 03

DRAWBACK – 02
In trigonometry, computations involving angles that are not multiples of common angles 30, 45,
or 60 degrees can lead to trigonometric functions resulting in irrational numbers. This occurs
because these angles may not have exact representations in terms of square roots or rational
numbers. Handling such situations requires understanding irrational trigonometric values and
providing approximate solutions.
PRACTICAL PROBLEM:
Consider the angle θ = 37o .Calculate the values of sinθ , cosθ and tanθ .

1. Sine(sin θ):
 In general, sinθ for an angle like 37 o is an irrational number.
 The exact value would involve square roots and may not simplify to a rational
number.
2. Cosine(cos θ ):
 Similarly, cosθ for 37 o may be an irrational number.
3. Tangent(tan θ ):
sin 37 °
 Tan 37 o=
cos 37 °
 If sinθ and cosθ are both irrational , tanθ may also be irrational.
EXAMPLE:
For θ =37 o;

1. Sine:
 Sin37 o might be an irrational number,
for example, sin37 o≈ 0.6018150232.
2. Cosine:
 Cos37 o may also be an irrational number, for example,
Cos37 o ≈ 0.7986355101.
3. Tangent:
sin 37 °
 Tan37 o= .
cos 37 °
 Tan37 o≈ 0.7530960397.
 04
HANDLING IRRATIONAL VALUES:
1. Decimal Approximations:
 Provide values rounded to a reasonable number of decimal places for practical use.
2. Calculation Usage:
 Rely on calculators or software for precise calculations involving irrational
trigonometric values.
3. Symbolic Representation:
 Express the answer symbolically without decimal approximations if a precise form is
needed.
Understanding the nature of irrational trigonometric values is crucial for accurate calculations
and practical applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, and geometry.
 05

DRAWBACK – 03
Introduction:
Precision and rounding errors in calculations involving real numbers can arise when dealing with
recurring decimals, such as 0.3333.... These errors can impact the accuracy of results, especially
in iterative or complex computations. Addressing these issues requires careful consideration of
the number of decimal places used and appropriate rounding strategies.

Practical Problem:
Suppose you are tasked with calculating the sum of an infinite geometric series with a common
ratio of 0.3 and a first term of 0.2.The formula for the sum is
a
S= , where a is the first term and r is the common ratio.
1−r
Solution:
1. Recurring Decimal (0.3):
- The common ratio is 0.3, a recurring decimal.
2. Sum Formula:
0.2
-. S =
1−0.3

Example:
0.2
S=
1−0.3
0.2
S=
0.7

S = 0.285714...
Handling Precision and Rounding:
1. Decimal Places:
- Decide on the appropriate number of decimal places for precision. In this case, let's consider
4 decimal places.

06
2. Rounding:
- Round the result to the chosen number of decimal places.
In this example, 0.285714....≈ 0.2857.
Solutions:
1. Increased Precision:
- Use more decimal places in intermediate steps to minimize rounding errors.
2. Appropriate Rounding:
- Round the final result to a reasonable number of decimal places based on the context of the
problem.
3. Awareness of Recurring Decimals:
- Be cautious when dealing with recurring decimals, as their infinite nature can introduce
challenges in precision.
Understanding and managing precision and rounding errors are vital for obtaining accurate
results in numerical computations, particularly when dealing with recurring decimals or iterative
processes. By carefully selecting the number of decimal places and rounding strategies, you can
minimize the impact of these errors and ensure the reliability of your calculations
 07
DRAWBACK-04

Introduction:
Euler's number, denoted as e, is an irrational mathematical constant approximately equal to
2.71828. It frequently arises in various mathematical and scientific contexts, presenting practical
challenges due to its non-repeating, non-terminating decimal representation. Handling e in
calculations involves addressing precision issues and considering practical applications.

Practical Problem:

Suppose you are modeling exponential growth in a population using the formula P(t) = P0× e rt
where:
- P(t) is the population at time t,
- P0 is the initial population,
- r is the growth rate,
- t is time.

Solution:
1. Exponential Growth Formula:

- P(t) = P0×e rt

- The use of e introduces irrational numbers in calculations.

Example:
Consider a population with an initial count P0 = 1000, a growth rate r = 0.05 per year, and you
want to find the population after t = 3 years.
P(3) = 1000 ×e 0.05 ×3

P(3) = 1000 ×e 0.15

08
Practical Problems:
1. Precision Issues:

- Calculating e 0.15 involves handling an irrational exponent, potentially leading to precision

challenges in numerical representations.
2. Computational Complexity:
- In iterative calculations or large-scale simulations, repeatedly using e can introduce
computational complexity.

Handling Euler's Number:

1. Decimal Approximations:
- Provide results rounded to an appropriate number of decimal places for practical use.
2. Use of Calculators/Software:
- Rely on calculators or computer software for accurate numerical evaluations involving e.

Solutions:
1. Awareness of Precision:
- Recognize when decimal approximations are sufficient for the given context.
2. Use of Logarithms:
- In some cases, logarithmic transformations can simplify calculations involving e, avoiding
precision issues.
3. Real-world Interpretation:
- Consider the practical significance of precision in the specific application to determine the
level of accuracy needed.
Addressing practical problems associated with Euler's number involves a careful balance
between mathematical accuracy and the constraints of real-world applications. Awareness of
precision issues and the context of use ensures that calculations involving e align with the
requirements of the problem at hand.

09
DRAWBACK-05

Introduction:
Geometric problems often involve square roots when calculating distances, areas, or other
geometric quantities. Practical issues arise when dealing with square roots of non-perfect
squares, leading to irrational numbers. Managing these situations requires understanding how to
handle irrational square roots and providing solutions for accurate geometric computations.

Practical Problem:
Consider a right-angled triangle with legs of length a=3 units and b=4 units. Calculate the length
of the hypotenuse (c) using the Pythagorean theorem: c= √ a2 +b 2

Solution:
Pythagorean Theorem:

c= √ a2 +b 2

In this case, c= √ 32 +4 2

Example:

c= √ 32 +4 2

c= √ 9+16

c= √ 25

c=5

Handling Irrational Square Roots:

Decimal Approximation:
Provide a decimal approximation for practical use. In this case, c=5.
Exact Form:

Express the result in exact form, √ 25 when precision is not a primary concern.

10
Solutions:
Use of Calculators:
Rely on calculators or software for precise numerical values when needed.
Understanding Irrational Results:
Recognize that geometric problems may yield irrational square roots, and this is a natural
outcome.
Practical Application:
Interpret results in the context of the problem, considering whether an exact form or decimal
approximation is more appropriate.
Dealing with square roots in geometric problems involves managing irrational numbers,
understanding when to use decimal approximations or exact forms, and recognizing the
implications for practical applications. Awareness of these considerations ensures accurate
geometric computations in various real-world scenarios.
 11
DRAWBACK-06
Introduction:
Inequalities and inequations are common in real-world problems, and practical challenges arise
when solving and interpreting them. Issues such as precision, constraints, and the context of the
problem need to be carefully considered for meaningful solutions.

Practical Problem:
Consider the inequality 2x - 5 < 3x + 2. Solve for x and interpret the solution.

Solution:
1.Inequality Solving:
- Solve 2x - 5 < 3x + 2 to find the values of x that satisfy the inequality.
Example:
2x - 5 < 3x + 2
-5 < x + 2
-7 < x

Practical Problems:
1. Precision Issues:
- Arithmetic operations and solving inequations can introduce precision challenges, especially
when dealing with decimals or fractions.
2. Contextual Constraints:
- Real-world problems often have constraints that may not be explicitly stated in the
mathematical representation, affecting the validity of solutions.
 12
Handling Inequalities:
1. Decimal/Fractional Precision:
- Provide solutions in decimal or fractional forms based on the precision requirements of the
problem.
2. Contextual Interpretation:
- Understand the context of the problem to identify relevant constraints or limitations on the
variable.

Solutions:
1. Expressing the Solution:
- The solution to -7 < x is x > -7.
2. Contextual Interpretation:
- In a real-world scenario, this may represent a range of values for which a certain condition
holds.
3. Graphical Representation:
- Use a number line or graphical representation to visualize the solution set.

Real-world Interpretation:
- Example Interpretation:
- If x represents a temperature, x > -7 might indicate temperatures higher than -7 degrees,
depending on the specific context.
- Practical Consideration:
- Recognize that inequalities may represent constraints or conditions in various situations, and
interpreting solutions requires understanding the practical implications.
Addressing practical problems associated with inequalities involves considering precision,
understanding contextual constraints, and interpreting solutions in the context of the real-world
problem being modeled. Awareness of these issues ensures that mathematical solutions align
with the practical aspects of the given scenario.

13

CONCLUSION

In this project, we explored several practical problems and associated drawbacks in physics,
trigonometry, decimal approximations, Euler's number, geometric computations, and
inequalities. Each section presented a real-world problem, its solution, and the potential
challenges and limitations encountered in the process.
The projectile motion problem illustrated the application of quadratic equations in determining
the maximum height reached by a launched object. Trigonometric computations involving angles
like 37 degrees highlighted the occurrence of irrational numbers and the need for decimal
approximations in practical scenarios.

The section on precision and rounding errors emphasized the challenges posed by recurring
decimals, urging the importance of careful consideration in choosing the number of decimal
places and rounding strategies. Euler's number, a ubiquitous constant in mathematical modeling,
introduced precision issues and computational complexities in exponential growth scenarios.

Geometric computations involving square roots of non-perfect squares demonstrated the need for
handling irrational numbers, providing both decimal approximations and exact forms as
solutions. Lastly, inequalities and inequations presented challenges in precision and contextual
interpretation, emphasizing the importance of understanding real-world constraints.

In conclusion, this project underscores the significance of acknowledging and addressing

practical challenges in mathematical problem-solving. Whether dealing with quadratic equations,
trigonometric functions, decimal approximations, irrational numbers, or inequalities, a nuanced
understanding of the context and careful consideration of precision are essential for accurate and
meaningful results. Awareness of these challenges empowers practitioners to make informed
decisions and enhances the application of mathematical concepts in various fields.
14