Rational Point

In number theory, a rational point is a point in space each of whose coordinates are rational; that is, the coordinates of the point are elements of the field of rational numbers, as well as being elements of larger fields that contain the rational numbers, such as the real numbers and the complex numbers.

For example, (3, −67/4) is a rational point in 2 dimensional space, since 3 and −67/4 are rational numbers. A special case of a rational point is an integer point, that is, a point all of whose coordinates are integers. E.g., (1, −5, 0) is an integral point in 3-dimensional space. On the other hand, more generally, a K-rational point is a point in a space where each coordinate of the point belongs to the field K, as well as being elements of larger fields containing the field K. This is analogous to rational points, which, as stated above, are contained in fields larger than the rationals. A corresponding special case of K-rational points are those that belong to a ring of algebraic integers existing inside the field K.

Read more about Rational Point:  Rational or K-rational Points On Algebraic Varieties, Rational Points of Schemes, See Also

Famous quotes containing the words rational and/or point:

    ... how can a rational being be ennobled by any thing that is not obtained by its own exertions?
    Mary Wollstonecraft (1759–1797)

    As one delves deeper and deeper into Etiquette, disquieting thoughts come. That old Is- It-Worth-It Blues starts up again softly, perhaps, but plainly. Those who have mastered etiquette, who are entirely, impeccably right, would seem to arrive at a point of exquisite dullness. The letters and the conversations of the correct, as quoted by Mrs. Post, seem scarcely worth the striving for. The rules for finding topics of conversation fall damply on the spirit.
    Dorothy Parker (1893–1967)