NRICH: Harmonic Triangle

Can you see how to build a harmonic triangle? Can you work out the next two rows?

This is the start of the harmonic triangle:

Each fraction is equal to the sum of the two fractions below it.

Look at the triangle above and check that the rule really does work.

Can you work out the next two rows?

The nth row starts with the fraction 1/n, so the first diagonal goes:

1/11/21/3, 1/4

Take a look at the second diagonal:1/21/61/121/20

Can you see a pattern?
What fraction will appear in the second position on the nth row?

Can you prove it?

What about the third and fourth diagonals?

Age 14 to 16


Math Topics
Algebra & Pre-Algebra, Fractions & Decimals, Linear Equations
High School, Educator
9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade
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