Question

Use complete sentences to describe the use of an indirect proof.

Answer 1

instead of showing that the conclusion to be proved is true, you show that all of the alternatives are false. To do this, you must assume the negation of the statement to be proved. Then, deductive reasoning will lead to a contradiction: two statements that cannot both be true.

Answer 2

Answer: An indirect proof is sometimes very useful.

Step-by-step explanation: Generally, when we have to prove a theorem or a result, we use the already existing definitions and properties and the we arrive at the conclusion.

But, sometimes it is very difficult to prove something in a straightforward way. At this point, we use an interesting way of proof, which is known as Indirect method of proving or proof by contradiction.

Here, at first we assume something is true. Then, applying some results and postulates, we show that our assumption comes out to be false, i.e., we arrive at a contradiction. From here, we can say that our assumption was wrong and hence we arrive at the conclusion.

These were the steps of an indirect proof.